Turkey PM at Davos highlights priorities of G20 presidency

During its presidency of the G20 group Turkey will prioritize an inclusive approach to global growth, the implementation of decisions taken by the economic group, as well as investment and trade, the country’s prime minister said in Davos on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu also called for national ministers to set aside their parochial interests and act in the broader interests of humanity, according to a press release.

“If we tackle the issues with a shared sense of responsibility, we will send a strong message,” Davutoglu, who is participating in the 45th World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos-Klosters, said.

The Turkish official said the G20 represented an unprecedented platform for policy coordination.

Davutoglu said he hoped to address the growing challenge of youth unemployment and to increase the number of women in the workforce in 2025 by 100 million.

He also spoke on the role small to medium enterprises played in securing sustainable development and the need to provide the conditions for them to succeed.

Turkey will continue to play the role of mediator and bridge-builder, he told participants.

“Turkey is well-placed to play this role because of its impressive economic achievements, self-confidence and democratic credentials,” he said.

There are more than 2,500 participants at this year’s World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos-Klosters, which runs from Jan. 21 to Jan. 24.