At the first-ever regional seminar of the Appalachian-Turkish Trade Project, U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd, D-W.Va., said that the two regions can build on their similarities
to form a lasting economic relationship."Both Turkey and Appalachia -- most especially West Virginia -- have historically been lands of underdevelopment relative to their potential. Both are now emerging on the
world scene. And both have the advantage of foundations strengthened by traditional values. I hope these parallels can lay the groundwork for a mutually beneficial trade and investment relationship," Byrd
said.
"The key to fostering a strong relationship is information. The Appalachian-Turkish Trade Project provides a forum for both the exchange of information and the establishment of contacts between officials
and businesses from West Virginia and Turkey," Byrd stated.
Byrd and other Members of Congress launched the Appalachian-Turkish 
Trade Project (ATTP) last year in an effort to open new economic ties between the two
areas. Byrd said that the initiative can highlight many of the positive aspects that West Virginia offers to foreign trading partners.
"With one of the lowest crime rates in the nation, and a workforce with an
outstanding reputation for high productivity, low absenteeism, and above average job loyalty, many foreign-owned companies are discovering that West Virginia is
an excellent place to locate their facilities," Byrd explained.
According to a study by the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, Turkey is in need of a number of products that
West Virginia businesses are well-suited to provide, including coal, building products, auto parts, and high-technology and information systems. Other West
Virginia sectors that might benefit from trade with Turkey include general industrial equipment, mining machinery, specialty metal products, and industrial chemicals.
"With the growing number of coal power plant
projects in Turkey, there is a real potential for West Virginia to increase its coal exports," Byrd said. "There are similar opportunities on the investment side. In energy projects alone -- in which West
Virginia is both a leader of fossil fuel production and research and development -- the Commerce Department projects that Turkey will need an investment of at least $3 billion over the next 10 to 15 years. The
opportunities for West Virginia companies are promising."
More than 200 businesses from West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania,
and Turkey registered to participate in the daylong trade seminar. The program featured remarks by Byrd and Governor Bob Wise, D-W.Va. In addition, U.S.
Department of Commerce experts spoke about the Turkish market and about the financing and marketing resources available to American businesses interested in
forming ties with Turkey. The Department of Commerce matched interested Appalachian business representatives with Turkish business officials to foster closer trade relationships.
###
