Lithuania expands ties with Türkiye: economic cooperation agreement signed
Minister of Economy and Innovation Edvinas Grikšas met with Türkiye’s Minister of Trade Omer Bolat in Istanbul, where they agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, industry, and innovation and signed a protocol to that effect.
“As global supply chains continue to evolve, we must make efforts to fully utilize our economic potential. We see strong opportunities for Lithuania–Türkiye bilateral trade to grow significantly by strengthening our ties. We can also deepen cooperation in high-tech sectors and will continue to reinforce institutional and business links,” said Minister E. Grikšas.
The protocol between the ministers was signed following the second meeting of the Joint Lithuania–Türkiye Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO) and a business forum that brought together companies from both countries.
During his visit to Istanbul, Minister Grikšas also met with Türkiye’s Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacir to discuss opportunities for expanding joint innovation and research projects.
“We see real opportunities to further connect Lithuanian and Turkish businesses – from traditional industries to high-tech and innovation sectors. We encourage Turkish companies to choose Lithuania more actively as a gateway to the European Union market, and Lithuanian businesses to expand more confidently into Türkiye, strengthening mutually beneficial partnerships,” Minister Grikšas emphasized.
Another agreement was reached during the visit in Istanbul – the Association of Lithuanian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Crafts and Türkiye’s DEİK signed a memorandum aimed at strengthening business ties, promoting investment, and fostering joint projects.
The Lithuania–Türkiye forum brought together representatives of Lithuanian business and economic institutions, including the Association of Lithuanian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Crafts, the Innovation Agency Lithuania, Invest Lithuania, Klaipėda Free Economic Zone, Lithuanian Railways, Teltonika, and IMLITEX Holding.
In Istanbul, Minister Grikšas also attended SAHA, the largest defense industry exhibition in Türkiye, where he met with representatives of Turkish defense institutions and companies, including Ahmet Akyol, CEO of ASELSAN. He also visited the Ukrainian stand and met with Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defense Serhii Boev.
The strong defense industry potential of NATO member Türkiye, combined with the rapid development of Lithuania’s defense sector, creates a solid foundation for manufacturing and technological cooperation between the two countries in the face of geopolitical challenges.