Türkiye and UK Begin Talks to Modernise Free Trade Agreement, Strengthen Economic Partnership
London, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye and the United Kingdom have officially initiated discussions to modernise their existing Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signalling a new chapter in bilateral economic relations. The announcement came during the Leadership Circle Networking Reception in London, co-hosted by the European Turkish Brands Association (ATMB) and the UK Asian Business Council.
The high-level event, attended by prominent policymakers, business leaders, and diaspora representatives, focused on enhancing UK–Türkiye trade ties, exploring new investment opportunities, and expanding diaspora-driven economic cooperation.
In his remarks, Turkish Ambassador to the United Kingdom, H.E. Osman Koray Ertaş, confirmed that technical negotiations to upgrade the current FTA are set to commence shortly. He acknowledged the crucial support of British Member of Parliament Afzal Khan and the UK Trade Representative to Türkiye in facilitating this process.
Ambassador Ertaş underscored the broader implications of the bilateral cooperation, stating, “The collaboration between two powerful and influential NATO allies—though not members of the EU—will not only boost economic prosperity but also contribute to the security and stability of Europe as a whole.”
ATMB President Vehbi Keleş noted that Turkish businesses in the UK, largely led by second- and third-generation entrepreneurs, stand to benefit significantly from a modernised FTA. He projected that bilateral trade could grow to $68.6 billion in the medium term.
Labour MP Tahir Ali, Chair of the UK–Türkiye Parliamentary Group, highlighted the growing interest in Turkish enterprises across the UK, citing the vibrant presence of over 400,000 people of Turkish origin in the country as a strong foundation for future partnerships.
Afzal Khan MP remarked that the modernisation of the FTA would mark a new milestone in UK–Türkiye diplomatic relations, which date back over 450 years.
Baroness Pola Uddin, a member of the House of Lords, stressed the potential for creating a dynamic new economic corridor by combining Turkish craftsmanship with Asian innovation.
Taha Coburn-Kutay, Chair of the UK Asian Business Council, called for greater visibility of Turkish brands across the UK, beyond London, and encouraged expanding collaborations to regions such as Northern Ireland, Manchester, and Birmingham. “The geographical diversity of the UK market presents significant opportunities for Turkish businesses,” he stated.
The talks to modernise the FTA are expected to serve as a catalyst for deepening economic integration and fostering resilient trade networks between Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
