As Türkiye asserts its position as key global player in the realms of business, defense, technology, and diplomacy, understanding its rapidly evolving landscape is vital to U.S business leaders. This 360 Leadership Delegation offered an immersive and high-level opportunity for leaders to engage directly with the individuals shaping Türkiye’s economic and political trajectory.

Through a strategic partnership with the Yunus Emre Institute, Meridian International Center led a 15-member delegation of U.S. private sector, nonprofit, and policy leaders to Istanbul and Ankara from June 15–21, 2025, for a week of dialogue, relationship-building, and cultural exchange aimed at deepening bilateral ties and fostering long-term cooperation.

Over the week-long exchange program, the delegation attended meetings with government officials, corporate representatives, and business association leaders. To gain a 360 perspective on Türkiye, the delegation also visited key cultural sites and learned more about Turkish history and culture.  

Istanbul: During a dynamic three-day visit to Istanbul, the delegation engaged in a series of high-level meetings and cultural experiences that highlighted Türkiye’s economic landscape and business potential. On the first day, the group met with the Investment Office of the Presidency of Türkiye, the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, and the Türkiye-U.S. Business Council (TAİK), concluding the day with a welcome reception and scenic boat tour along the Bosphorus. The second day featured a breakfast meeting with Turkish Airlines executives, followed by discussions with the Anatolian Lions Business Association (ASKON) and the Independent Industrialists and Businessmen’s Association (MÜSİAD), culminating in a formal dinner hosted at the MÜSİAD venue. On the final day, participants checked out of the Sheraton Istanbul Levent and embarked on a guided walking tour of the historic Sultanahmet district before continuing their journey to Ankara, blending cultural immersion with continued engagement. 

Ankara: During a focused two-day visit to the nation’s capital, the delegation engaged with key governmental and cultural institutions to deepen bilateral ties and explore strategic areas of cooperation. The visit began with a breakfast meeting with the leadership of the Yunus Emre Institute, followed by high-level discussions at the Ministry of Trade, the Ankara Chamber of Commerce, the Ministry of Finance, and the Presidency of Defense Industries. In addition to these substantive engagements, the group also explored Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage with visits to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic.