Minister heads Turkish trade mission

Government minister John McGuinness today begins a three-day Enterprise Ireland trade mission to Turkey.

One of the fastest-growing economies in the world, Turkey has gradually opened up its markets to foreign business.

Trade and Marketing Minister Mr McGuinness is leading a delegation of executives from the construction, telecoms, healthcare, energy and aviation industries.

Centred in Istanbul, the trade mission will also be aimed at the education, travel, energy and financial services sectors.

"The visit will help firms already selling into Turkey to increase their profile and also bolster their ability to win increased business," an Enterprise Ireland spokesman said.

Turkey is currently in negotiations to join the European Union.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen is leading a five-day trade mission to China later this month to boost trade with the Asian economic giant, which hosted the 2008 Olympics.

Mr Cowen will attend major business events planned for Beijing and Shanghai.