Minister Işıkhan met with representatives of the Turkish community and business world in Belgium, as well as Turkish politicians, at Türkiye’s Embassy in Brussels. The meeting was attended by AK Party Bingöl MP Zeki Korkutata, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Brussels Barış Tantekin and Türkiye’s Permanent Representative to the European Union, Ambassador Yaprak Balkan, along with numerous representatives of the Turkish community.
He highlights the Turkish community’s role
Işıkhan said the Turkish community in Belgium contributes to the country’s economic and social life while also strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Türkiye and Belgium.
Işıkhan said the responsibilities undertaken by the Turkish community in politics, local government, civil society and the business world contribute to safeguarding the community’s rights and interests and to developing relations between the two countries. He said the first generation to come to Belgium had shouldered significant responsibilities and stressed that its vision was crucial.
Focus on economic ties and mutual benefit
Işıkhan said Türkiye-Belgium economic relations had gained momentum recently and recalled that the Belgian Economic Mission delegation visited Türkiye from May 10 to 14 under the leadership of Queen Mathilde.
Işıkhan described the visit as important and productive for developing economic and trade relations. He said they would work together to further develop relations between Türkiye and Belgium in every field on the basis of mutual benefit and a “win-win” approach.
Services for citizens living abroad
Işıkhan said AK Party Deputy Chairman Zafer Sırakaya was also carrying out important work to develop Türkiye-Belgium relations. Relaying the President’s directive that citizens living abroad should not be left alone, Işıkhan said this approach formed a fundamental part of their labor policies.
Işıkhan said the Ministry of Labor and Social Security aims to protect the rights acquired by citizens living abroad in employment and social security, as well as to provide them with fast and high-quality services. He said numerous services had been moved to digital platforms and the number of labor and social security consultancy offices had been increased as part of these efforts.
Minister Işıkhan listened to the participants’ requests and concerns and took notes during the meeting. He said he would closely follow up on the issues raised.
