OSTİM Chairman Orhan Aydın briefed the President on the projects they are undertaking for the future. Aydın explained that they provide consultancy services to many countries wishing to establish industrial zones similar to OSTİM, and stated that OSTİM is ready to undertake significant projects in the defense industry. In this context, Aydın mentioned their willingness to bid to clear minefields along the Syrian border, under the consultancy of NATO Namsa.
After listening to the briefing prepared by Cluster Coordinator Barış Cihan BAŞER and Sector Consultant Haydar ÇERİ, President Abdullah GÜL said, “Since you say you can do this, then organize it and present your project in the best way possible. We, as the state, will convey to you in the best way that we are giving you priority. There is no time to waste. You know there is a timeframe for this. It needs to be completed within this timeframe; tenders will be conducted accordingly, and tasks will be assigned accordingly. You organize it, and we will do whatever is necessary.”
Emphasizing his belief in the OSTİM entrepreneur who volunteered for the job of clearing mines on the Syrian border, President Gül continued as follows:
"The law regarding mine clearance has been passed. This law actually provides you with a very good opportunity. I believe you can do this. But you also need to demonstrate organizational ability. Saying 'we can do this' isn't enough. It's crucial to be able to deliver it to those who request it, without problems. Ultimately, these areas are not testing grounds. These areas will be opened to people, to agriculture. Therefore, everyone needs to feel secure when this job is given to you. They need to feel that there won't be any problems later. There is time for that. Cooperation with NATO is possible. They also need to find a strong partner to cooperate with. Now, organize this according to international standards. Since you say you can do this job, handle the organizational part as well and present your project in the best way possible, and we, as the state, will tell you in the best way that we are giving you priority."
