GAP is one of the world's most ambitious regional development projects covering irrigation and hydropower schemes as well as related social and economic sectors in an integrated model. We expect more Japanese support for and participation in the fulfillment of this project. A series of SME missions abroad is organized in order to increase their international awareness and to enhance contacts. A SME mission has just completed its tour in Japan. We believe cooperation at the SME level may become an important aspect of our future bilateral economic relations.
Tourism is a steadily and satisfactorily growing sector.
Twice a week direct Turkish Airlines flights between Narita Tokyo and Kansai Osaka on the one hand and Istanbul on the other are fully booked. Cultural and social exchanges constitute an important element of the relationship between the two countries. The Japan-Turkey Society, for instance, successfully completed 100 years of activity. In addition, the success of the Kashiwazaki Turkish Culture Town in the Niigata Prefecture in its first year marks the high potential of Turkey-Japan cultural relations. The number of visitors to this theme park, exceeding the expectations of the Japanese investor, clearly indicates the interest of the Japanese people in Turkish culture, history, folklore, art, and cuisine.