Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan closed the 7th annual Tatlidil Forum in Reading, Turkey, on Sunday afternoon, calling for a mutually beneficial "strategic partnership" between Turkey and the United Kingdom, which is a "necessity rather than a simple choice".
The President of Turkey pays a three-day visit to the United Kingdom. On Tuesday he will be received by Prime Minister Theresa May and Queen Elizabeth.
The annual forum promotes Turkey-Britain trade ties, which the Turkish leader said he wanted to strengthen in the run-up to Brexit. He described Britain as a "valuable and credible strategic ally" and a "true friend", as it turned out during the coup attempt.
Addressing the delegates, President Erdogan highlighted the dynamics of the Turkish market, urging British investors to seize the opportunities offered by his country.
He cited ambitious programs that motivate foreign investors, and noted that he wants to match Britain's financial strength with his country's business resources, such as a high-quality workforce.
He focused on working with Britain to build new Turkish fifth-generation fighter jets.
"The resulting partnerships will provide tremendous benefits to both sides," he said, noting that in recent years the British have invested more than $ 15 billion in Turkey, "as a sign of confidence". He added that the goal is for the volume of bilateral trade to reach $ 20 billion.
He also called on the British to increase the flow of tourists to Turkey, but also to proceed with the purchase of housing in the country.
Focusing on security, President Erdogan said Turkey attaches great importance to Euro-Atlantic security. He added that his country is working for lasting peace, security and stability in the Middle East, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia.
He expressed the desire to work closely with Britain to tackle the threat of terrorism in all its forms, referring to two countries fighting side by side, as two responsible members of the international community and allies.
He noted in particular the role that Turkey plays in managing humanitarian crises.
On Monday morning, President Erdogan will deliver a speech on Turkey's regional and global vision at London's Chatham House think tank.