Latest News from Turkey
Brawl Erupts in Turkey's Parliament Over Justice Minister Appointment
A physical clash broke out in Turkey's parliament on February 11, 2026, between ruling AK Party and opposition lawmakers during the oath-taking of new Justice Minister Akın Gürlek, previously Istanbul chief prosecutor involved in opposition trials. Opposition tried to block him due to perceived political bias in cases against CHP figures like Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.
The session was adjourned briefly before Gürlek took the oath.
Cabinet Reshuffle Appoints New Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi
President Erdoğan named Erzurum Governor Mustafa Çiftçi as the new interior minister amid the cabinet shake-up on February 11, 2026, with no official reason given beyond ministers requesting relief. This follows arrests of CHP-run municipality officials in corruption probes.
Appointments coincide with debates on constitutional reforms and PKK peace talks.
Türkiye Unveils Ambitious 2026 Infrastructure Expansion Plan
The Transport and Infrastructure Ministry announced a 2026 program on February 12 targeting rail, maritime, road, and digital network growth, including high-speed rail and port expansions. Key goals include 15.1 million TEU container handling, over 101.9 million tons cargo by Turkish vessels, and railway connections to 20 ports.
It emphasizes domestic tech R&D and digital inclusion for 3,905 settlements.
Greek PM Mitsotakis Visits Turkey for High-Level Cooperation Council
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met President Erdoğan in Ankara on February 11-12, 2026, to sustain dialogue amid rising tensions over maritime boundaries and Cyprus. Talks focus on positive agenda like trade and energy cooperation, avoiding contentious issues.
Turkey deems disputes 'not insurmountable' despite Greece's territorial water claims.
Greece and Turkey Sign Key Agreements in Ankara
During the 6th High-Level Cooperation Council on February 12, 2026, Greece and Turkey signed agreements on trade, energy, education, and cultural ties. The meeting highlights efforts to improve NATO ally relations despite Aegean and Cyprus disputes.
No breakthroughs expected on core conflicts like maritime boundaries.
Turkey Releases Final Balance of Trade, Exports, and Imports Data
On February 12, 2026, Turkey reported final balance of trade at -$8B, exports at $22.5B, and imports at $30.5B, revised from preliminary figures. Tourism revenues reached $24.3B, up significantly.
These updates reflect ongoing economic monitoring amid high PPI YoY at 27.67%.
Industrial Production Grows 2.4% YoY in Latest Report
Turkey's industrial production rose 2.4% year-on-year and 2.5% month-on-month as reported on February 10, 2026. This indicates moderate recovery in manufacturing sectors.
Data supports broader economic calendar tracking ahead of inflation report.
Retail Sales Surge 14.2% YoY, Stronger Than Expected
Retail sales in Turkey increased 1.5% month-on-month and 14.2% year-on-year on February 11, 2026, exceeding consensus forecasts. The growth signals robust consumer spending despite economic pressures.
Figures are part of key economic indicators released this week.
Iran's Gas Exports to Turkey Rise 16% to Over 8 Billion Cubic Meters in 2025
Iran supplied more than 8.17 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Turkey in 2025, a 16% increase year-on-year. This bolsters Turkey's energy imports from its neighbor.
Data highlights strengthening regional energy ties into 2026.
Turkish Business Leaders Demand Customs Union Overhaul with EU
Business leaders urged urgent reforms to Turkey's customs union with the EU, noting Turkey's 23-24 FTAs vs. EU's 44 agreements. The report emphasizes leveling the trade playing field.
This comes amid ongoing EU-Turkey economic discussions.
Upcoming Inflation Report and Treasury Cash Balance on February 12
Turkey's Central Bank is set to release its Inflation Report at 07:30 AM on February 12, 2026, alongside Treasury Cash Balance data. These follow recent strong retail and industrial figures.
Investors await insights into inflation trends and fiscal health.