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On December 15, 2014 the B20 Turkey Inaugural Meeting was held in Istanbul. The meeting discussion focused on the B20 Turkey priorities; business expectations from the B20; better approaches to G20-B20 interaction. The B20 Taskforce Breakouts discussion covered B20 priorities on drafting recommendations for the G20 Leaders on financing growth, human capital and employment, infrastructure and investment, trade, anti-corruption and SMEs and entrepreneurship. The meeting was opened by welcoming remarks by H.E. Ali Babacan, Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey. The events concluded with the B20 Gala Dinner with G20 Sherpas.
RSPP President Alexander Shokhin addressed the first panel session “What does business expect from the B20?” Alexander Shokhin emphasized that the most vital outcome of the B20 collaboration and G20-B20 interaction should be strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth. According to Alexander Shokhin, the components of growth which is business-led and inclusive are: growth and investment-friendly business environment with quality regulation and stable, efficient and fair tax systems; equal opportunities for education and quality jobs for all citizens; effective and active labour market policies and environment which fosters for entrepreneurship. RSPP President said that the B20 should work with G20 governments and international organizations to translate this strategy into reality.
Responding to the moderator`s question “What do you think should be B20 priorities in the forthcoming 12 months?” Alexander Shokhin noted that the B20 should ensure that G20 governments deliver on their collective and individual pledges to create climate conducive for business-led growth. According to the RSPP President, two As (accountability and advocacy) and two Cs (continuity and consistency) are needed to meet this goal.
Concluding his statement Alexander Shokhin emphasized a need of integrated approach to driving growth. In this regard, according to Alexander Shokhin, an establishment of B20 taskforce consolidating such key drivers of growth as Energy and Climate, Food security, Digital economy and Internet, Intellectual property enforcement is viable.
On the sidelines of the B20 events Alexander Shokhin had a number of bilateral meetings with the partners of the G20 member-countries. In particular the working meeting with Mr. Rızanur Meral, President of Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists of Turkiye (TUSKON) was held.