Turkey is prioritizing stronger relations with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), according to Turkish Ambassador Huseyin Barbaros Dicle.
He emphasized that trade between Türkiye and COMESA has surpassed $15 billion, signaling growing economic ties.
During a meeting with COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe in Lusaka, Dicle discussed expanding cooperation in trade and business.
He noted that Kapwepwe attended the Turkey-Africa business forum two years ago and will join the Antalya Diplomacy Forum this April.
Dicle highlighted Türkiye’s commitment to empowering women in business, citing Turkish First Lady Emine Erdogan’s efforts in this area.
He also noted that Turkey’s trade with Africa has grown from $5.5 billion in 2003 to $50 billion today.
Additionally, Turkey has expanded its presence in Africa, with 44 embassies now established across the continent, up from 12 in 2008.
Cooperation with Africa focuses on renewable energy, agriculture, mining, and political collaboration, with Zambia being a key partner.