Latest News from Turkey
Erdoğan Postpones UAE Visit
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has postponed his planned visit to the United Arab Emirates scheduled for February 16 to "a more suitable time." During a phone call with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Erdoğan expressed regret over the latter's health problems and wished him a speedy recovery.
The visit to the UAE and Ethiopia was originally planned for February 16-17.
IMF Endorses Turkey's Economic Program
The International Monetary Fund has endorsed Türkiye's economic program, confirming that tight monetary policy, fiscal consolidation, and prudent income measures have successfully reduced inflation while maintaining steady growth. The IMF projects 4.2% growth for 2026 and urged continued structural reforms to entrench gains.
Turkey Sends Battle Tanks to Somalia
Turkey has deployed battle tanks to Somalia amid rising Al-Shabaab insurgency. This military deployment follows Turkey's earlier deployment of F-16 jets to the region.
Turkey's Current Account Deficit Widens
Türkiye's current account deficit widened more than expected at the end of 2025, reaching $25.2 billion or 1.6% of GDP—roughly $15 billion higher than in 2024. Major brokerages have revised their 2026 deficit forecasts upward, with Akbank raising its projection to $36 billion and Gedik Yatırım to $35 billion, citing accelerating imports and trade balance deterioration.
Turkey Achieves Record Tourism Revenue
Türkiye achieved its highest-ever tourism figures in 2025, welcoming 64 million visitors and generating $65.2 billion in revenue despite regional instability. The country now ranks as the world's fourth-most visited destination.
Turkey-Oman Set $5 Billion Trade Target
Turkish and Omani officials have convened at the OMNEX 2026 business forum in Muscat, setting an ambitious target to elevate bilateral trade to $5 billion. Discussions highlighted Oman's role as a strategic gateway for Turkish businesses and emphasized mutual benefit.
Pakistan-Turkey Investment Council Launches
The Pakistan–Türkiye Investment & Development Council (PTIDC) was officially launched in February 2026, marking a new chapter in bilateral economic diplomacy between the two nations.
Finance Minister Highlights Economic Resilience
Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek stated that the nation's economy has shown resilience despite global headwinds, citing free trade agreements, strong service exports, and strategic investments in AI and energy. He highlighted Türkiye's pivotal role in new trade corridors and its robust services sector as key buffers.
Turkey Condemns Israeli West Bank Decision
Türkiye strongly condemned the Israeli government's decision regarding West Bank land registration on February 16, 2026.
Precious Metals Rebound Sharply
Gold and silver prices rebounded sharply in early February 2026, with gold rising over 5.7% and silver gaining more than 9% after a steep two-day decline triggered by political uncertainty.