04.05.2016 Ankara

TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that they view the decision of the EU Commission proposing the lifting of Schengen visas for Turkish citizens with appreciation; stating that a great injustice will be prevented in regards to trade relations and that a new window of opportunity will be opened.

Hisarcıklıoğlu said in his press release:

“We appreciate the European Commission’s proposal for the lifting Schengen visas for Turkish citizens. On behalf of the business community, we thank all parties involved in bringing this about especially our government.

The proposal needs to be ratified byte European Council and the European Parliament. We anticipate that these two institutions will fulfill their duties.

Nearly all of the 72 criteria necessary for the lifting of visas have been completed.  Five criteria remain to be fulfilled. We support our government’s diligent efforts to fulfill these criteria and will continue to support them.

With the lifting of visas, our relations with the EU will be enhanced in all ways. A great injustice in regards to our trade relations will have be eliminated, allowing our business community to breathe easily.”