U.S. Chamber Welcomes Vice President Biden, Turkey’s Prime Minister Erdogan

Chamber Launches U.S.-Turkey Business Council During Event with Business, Government Leaders

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce hosted Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan today for a meeting of American and Turkish government and business leaders to discuss ways to improve the commercial relationship between the United States and Turkey. The event also marked the launch of the Chamber’s U.S.-Turkey Business Council.

“Turkey’s impressive economic growth solidifies its position as not only a gateway to markets in both Europe and the Middle East, but also as a burgeoning economy and investment partner for American businesses,” said Myron Brilliant, the Chamber’s executive vice president and head of International Affairs. “We are honored to work with the administration and Prime Minister Erdogan to deepen the growing economic ties between our countries.”

The U.S.-Turkey Business Council (USTBC) will serve as the leading trade and investment advocacy organization representing top American companies conducting business with Turkey. The Council consists of senior executives of U.S. companies from business sectors that are major investors in Turkey. The Coca-Cola Company will serve as Chair of the USTBC.

“The time is right to intensify our focus on Turkey,” said Brilliant. “The American business community sees enormous opportunity in the Turkish market, and the U.S.-Turkey Business Council will lead this important effort.”
"The Coca-Cola Company is honored to play a leadership role in fostering the American-Turkish bilateral relationship,” said Muhtar Kent, chairman of the Board of Directors and chief executive officer of The Coca-Cola Company. “We look forward to working with the Council to continue strengthening this important economic partnership in ways that benefit the people of both countries.”

International trade and investment is a key component of the Chamber’s 2013 American Jobs and Growth Agenda, an ambitious plan to generate stronger economic growth, create jobs, and expand opportunity for all Americans.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. Its International Affairs division includes more than 50 regional and policy experts and 12 country-specific business councils and initiatives. The U.S. Chamber also works closely with 116 American Chambers of Commerce abroad.