KEI Secretary General Comanescu: A Safe Future Can Only Be Achieved Through Collaboration

NEST Congress Center in Belek Tourism Area, where TRT is the official communication sponsor, Comanescu participated in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) and answered questions. Comanescu, honored to be invited to the forum, recalled that the ECO was established 33 years ago to promote economic cooperation. Comanescu noted that security and conflicts have been widely discussed recently, emphasizing the 'extremely important economic dimension of security.' Comanescu considered the ADF to be 'among the top global forums' and praised the selected topics as 'very well and timely chosen.' Comanescu also praised the 'quality and level of the participants,' highlighting the theme of 'connectivity' in the panel he attended. Comanescu discussed the role of the ECO in promoting regional cooperation. Stressing the importance of keeping communication channels open during 'tense situations between countries,' Comanescu emphasized the need for economic cooperation to enhance security. Comanescu referred to the acceptance of a comprehensive new and revised basic economic agenda for the next 10 years during Turkey's term presidency starting in December 2023 as an example. Comanescu praised Turkey's term presidency and described the agenda acceptance as 'thinking beyond the current situation, being aware of tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, and the future.' Comanescu emphasized the importance of collaboration for a stable and secure future, stating, 'Economic cooperation is crucial. That's why we are here as an organization. Hopefully, the current turbulence will be overcome through negotiations.' Comanescu acknowledged Turkey as a founding and funding member of the ECO, stating that they have always received significant and stable support from Turkey in organizational activities. Comanescu pointed out the recent trend towards 'protective measures' in international trade, suggesting the need to find ways for 'as little hindrance as possible, as active an exchange of trade as possible.' Comanescu argued that in the age of globalization and digitalization, dialogue is the only way to make constructive progress. Regarding 'protective or non-protective measures' in international trade, Comanescu expressed confidence in overcoming existing differences.