Washington, DC (December 8, 2014) The Middle East Commercial Center (MECC) hosted a leadership forum on Monday, December 8, 2014 and a gala dinner along with keynote remarks by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.

The dinner included business leaders from across the Middle East and the United States, including 75 associations (such as U.S. Departments of State and Commerce, USAID, Export-Import Bank of the U.S., OPIC, OECD, EBRD, the World Bank and other multi-lateral organizations from the region). These Turkish, Middle-Eastern, North African and American associations were brought together to shape and advance MECC’s efforts related to trade and investment across the region.

On the Turkish side, TACCI President Ali Kocak, TOBB representatives from Turkey, the founder of TABA (Turkish American Business Association) as well as other Turkish community leaders attended the gala dinner on December 8th.

Secretary of State John Kerry was introduced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President and Head of International Affairs Myron Brilliant will introduce Secretary Kerry. He delivered remarks about the importance of entrepreneurs, the advocacy of modest trade liberalization in order to increase the employment, and the discouragement of corruption, discrimination against women.

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New York, NY (December 1, 2014) TACCI hosted a seminar on Godiva: A Global Brand's Growth Story on Monday, December 1 from 6:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m. at Gilbert Albert Gallery. Godiva, the world's leading premium chocolate company, was acquired by Turkey's Yildiz Holding in 2008. Since then Godiva expanded its global presence and also its key market in North America.

On December 1 Kaan Dagalti, VP Godiva North America Business Development, took us through the journey after the acquisition. He presented the company's investment behind innovation, enhanced selling environments and the Godiva brand.

Godiva was the first major international acquisition of Yildiz Holding. The Group added Demet's Candy Company and most recently United Biscuits into its portfolio. Yildiz Holding is the largest Turkish investor in the US and the third largest biscuit/cookie group in the world.

Our guests also enjoyed delicious Godiva chocolates and also complimentary Turkish wine.

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New York, NY (November 28, 2014)TACCI was honored to host Bulancak Chamber Commerce and Industry Delegation of Turkey, which visited New York as a part of their U.S. tour. President Ali Kocak and Board Members Ms. Anlar and Mr. Polat had a meeting with the delegation at the offices of Commercial Attache. During the meeting President Ali Kocak introduced TACCI's mission and its activities. Also both chambers discussed how to do business between Bulancak and New York, especially in the honey and hazelnut industries.

Brooklyn, NY (November 25, 2014)TACCI’s President Mr. Ali Kocak participated at a dinner on November 25th which was organized by Turkish-American businessmen to honor the Borough President of Brooklyn Mr. Eric Adams. The General Consul of Turkey Ertan Yalcin and Deputy Consul Reyhan Ozgur as well as Mr.Ali Cinar, Erhan Yildirim and other leaders and Business people of the Turkish community were present. The dinner was held at Opera Café Lounge in Brooklyn. During the dinner Mr. Kocak explained the TACCI’s mission and its activities to Mr. Adams and discussed possible cooperations with the Borough of Brooklyn in organizing joint events in the future.

Representing TACCI, President Ali Kocak attended the 127th Annual Dinner Gala of the Italy-American Chamber of Commerce held at Cipriani Wall Street. During the dinner, Kocak had a friendly evening with the president Claudio Buzzo who introduced him to some of the members of the chamber.

Teaneck, NJ (November 18, 2014) Fairleigh Dickinson University hosted a breakfast seminar on Doing Business in Turkey on Tuesday, November 18 from 8:30 a.m.– Noon. TACCI was one of the promotional partners of the seminar and President Ali Kocak held a speech about how the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce and Industry works to increase bilateral commercial relations between the U.S. and Turkey.

As the most eastern country in the West and the most western country in the East, Turkey presents excellent immediate and long-term opportunities for American firms. Turkey’s growing economy, favorable geographical position and demography, growing consumer middle class, solid banking sector, and the dynamism of its entrepreneurial class have made this country a growing market for U.S. exporters. Turkey is also considered a commercial hub of the region which provides an access to business opportunities throughout Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Middle East and even Africa. While there are many significant opportunities for U.S. companies in Turkey, there are also obstacles hindering entrance into the market. Any market entry strategy for Turkey should start with a comprehensive understanding of the costs and benefits to doing business in Turkey.

To let the audience map out the opportunities and better understand the challenges of doing business in Turkey, the experienced speakers addressed the economic situation in Turkey, the challenges and opportunities as well as provided resources to assist in doing business in this market.

The Speakers are:

Ryan Barnes

Senior International Trade Specialist, Office of European Country Affairs, U.S. Department of Commerce

“An overview of the economy of Turkey and Services Available Through the United States Department of Commerce"

Mustafa Ilbeyli

Chief Project Director /Prime Ministry Investment Support & Promotion Agency of Turkey

“Turkey is open for Business”

Toni Corsini

NY/NJ Regional Manager Export Solutions Group Office of International Trade US Small Business Administration US Export Assistance Center

“Export Services Available through the United States Small Business Administration”

William Spear

International Advocate, Office of International Business, Development and Protocol, State of New Jersey Department of State

“The State of New Jersey Offers a full range of International Business Services”

Susan A. Gallagher O'Connell

Senior Vice President Relationship Manager, Commercial Banking PNC Bank

Michele Stacey

Vice President /International Banking Group

Jeff Placido

Foreign Exchange Director, PNC Bank

“The Range of international Business Services offered by PNC Bank”

Ali Kocak

President, Turkish American Chamber of Commerce

“How the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce Works to Increase Bilateral Commercial Relations between the U.S. and Turkey”

To find out more about how TACCI can assist you in entering this important market, please contact with TACCI office at or at

TACCI President Ali Kocak had a dinner and conversation with the member of Parlement of Republic of Azerbaijan Ms. Zeynəb Xanlarova at Turkuaz restaurant in Manhattan on November 14, 2014. During the meeting, Mr.Ali Kocak introduced Ms. Zeynəb Xanlarova the mission of TACCI, its activities, and its importance for both Azerbaijani and American business relationship. The dinner was in a friendly atmosphere.

On the occasion of the 31st anniversary of the Proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), President Ali Kocak, Vice President Celal Secilmis and the General Secretary of TACCI, Mark Meirowitz attended the reception at the Waldrof Astoria Hotel, hosted by the representative of the T.R.N.C. Ambassador Mehmet Dana.

On November 13 2014, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, Turkish-American Chamber of Commerce and Industry and 9 other chambers of commerce in New York city hosted an exciting international networking event at the georgeous Ramscale penthouse in West Village.

More than 150 young professionals from all over the world joined us for a truely international networking night and enjoyed open bar and complimentary foods while taking the advantage of meeting and greeting staff from multiple international chambers originating from all over the world.

To see the photos of the event, please click

On October 30, TACCI organized a tour for GGYD participant at Brooklyn Navy Yard Industrial Park where they had a chance to meet with American manufacturers. This tour included a site visit to IceStone, which is a socially and environmentally progressive company that manufactures countertops, desktops, and other durable surfaces out of recycled glass and cement. The last meeting was with International Trade Specialist Murat Muftari from International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. And for the last night of GGYD’s visit in New York City, TACCI invited them for dinner at Turkuaz Restaurant.

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TACCI hosted a networking event on Tuesday evening on October 28, 2014 with the participation of Union of Young Venture and Governance of Turkey Delegation which is visiting New York as a part of their US tour at Pranna NYC.

The event brought together more than 50 business professionals from the Greater New York area as well as entrepreneurs from Turkey to socialize and network. Our guests enjoyed complimentary appetizers by one of the finest restaurants in NYC, Pranna, in a calm and comfortable atmosphere while taking advantage of hundreds of business opportunities that our events generate.

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On October 28th TACCI organized a seminar for GGYD participants about how to do business in the United States. Dora Ertek made the first presentation about the U.S. market. Next presentation about business law was made by one of TACCI board members Attorney Mehmet Firat Polat, and the presentation about immigration law was made by TACCI Vice President Attorney Ayhan Ogmen.

Following the lunch, Senior Personal Banker Abdulrashid Abubakari from Bank of America talked about banking in USA, TACCI board member John Barka gave a talk about accounting while another TACCI board member Hasan Akipek discussed about logistics. Our new member Mehmet Sengulen, Grassi & Co. provided facilities for the seminar.

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Visit of the Union of Young Venture and Governance of Turkey Delegation

As TACCI we were honored to host the Union of Young Venture and Governance of Turkey Delegation (GGYD) between October 27th and 31st 2014. GGYD has 300 members and brings about 4 to 5 billion added value to Turkish economy, at the same time they have created 40.000 employment opportunities in Turkey.

12 GGYD delegates from different industries have visited New York City. TACCI arranged GGYD delegation’s first meeting with Elizabeth Daly who is the Chief Director of NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs on October 27th. During this meeting Ms. Daly informed GGYD delegation about developments in different industries in New York City, strong industries, how Mayor’s Office of New York City works, New York City’s incentive programs for foreign firms.

On the same day, the GGYD delegation met with Commercial Attaché, Mustafa A.Yurdupak. He provided useful information to delegation about how Turkey supports small businesses when they enter the US market. After that TACCI board members met with the GGYD members. President Ali Kocak welcomed GGYD warmly and introduced them TACCI's mission and activities. At the end of the meeting, the GGYD president M.Nezih Allioglu presented a plaque for TACCI president Ali Kocak.

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Visit of the Union of Young Venture and Governance of Turkey Delegation

Columbia University, NY (October 25, 2014) Turkish American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TACCI), in conjunction with The Turkish-American Architects, Engineers and Scientists Society (MIM), the Columbia University Earth and Environmental Engineering Department (EAEE), and Bahçeşehir University (BAU) hosted MIM/EAEE/BAU/TACCI Conference 2014 on Saturday, October 25 from 10:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m. in New York City. The conference was sponsored by Bahçeşehir University.

This conference brought together a group of prominent Turkish-American Architects and Engineers and Scientists to share with the audience their most recent contributions in their respective fields. The attendance to conference was open to the public and free of charge. More than 100 people were present.

The speakers were:

Mr. Enver Yücel, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Bahcesehir University

Dr. Sükrü Bozluolcay, Chairman of Bozlu Holding

Mr. Izzet Bensusan, Founder & CEO of Karbone Group

Dr. Gul Bahtiyar, Director of Bridge to Turkey Fund

Ms. Deborah A Hazell, CEO and Regional Head of HSBC Global Asset Management, Americas

Mr. Deger Cengiz, Principal, Independent Architecture and Design Works

Dr. Ali Kocak, President of TACCI

Tuna Tanriover, President of MIM,

Dr. Tuncel Yegulalp, Professor at Columbia University, Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering

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Visit of the Union of Young Venture and Governance of Turkey Delegation

On October 24 2014, TACCI organized a "Happy Hour" networking event at the Roofbar Hotel Indigo. There were more than 50 young professionals present. The event started with a networking session followed by a discussion with Life Coach and Improv Speaker Laura Westman.

All guests enjoyed the happy hour drink specials, and complimentary appetizers, had the opportunity to network and some lucky guests won prizes during the business card drawing.

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Visit of the Union of Young Venture and Governance of Turkey Delegation

Since its establishment, TACCI has been playing an important role to increase the business relations between Turkey and the United States as well as between its members. To further enhance the investment opportunities and help businesses to partnerships, TACCI holds regular networking meetings and events in order to ensure that the vision and mission stipulated by the organization are followed.

On Thursday, October 23, 2014 TACCI held a welcome reception to bring the old and new members and friends together. The reception was held at the Chart House, Weehawken, NJ. More than 100 guests attended the event. During the reception, President Ali Kocak thanked the members and friends for their support to TACCI and emphasized that since assuming the position in June 2014 there has been a 40% increase in the number of TACCI's members which clearly indicates how supportive the community is and asked them to continue their support.

Following the welcoming remarks, the Commercial Attaché Mustafa A. Yurdupak and Mr. Kocak presented the Membership Certificates of the new members. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mr. Kocak presented a plaque to Bahcesehir University CEO Enver Yucel for his dedication to education. TACCI member and the CEO of Temelli Group, Mr. Munir Temelli who attended the reception from Turkey, presented their product, famous Turkish apricots as a gift to the President of TACCI.

The Board of Directors (Ali Kocak, John Driscoll, Mustafa Merc, Ayhan Ogmen, Celal Secilmis, Mark Meirowitz, Mine Anlar, Hasan Akipek, Nevin Bakir, John C. Barka, Ihsan Baytan, Bahadir Inozu, Tolga Kaan Isik, Ercan Karabeyoglu, Gulay Oguzcan, Mehmet F. Polat, Mustafa A. Yurdupak, Ayhan Zeytinoglu) would like to thank all our guests for adding one more successful event to TACCI's history.

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Our new members:

Premium members:

• Simit & Smith

General members:

• LLK Logistics USA, Inc.
• JAS Transportation
• Asik International Inc.
• Grassi & Co.
• Akbulut Law Fim
• Farmers Insurance / Pekdemir Agency
• Playa Medical Plaza
• Fairway Limousine
• Turkish Chamber of Shipping
• Semperon Sytems
• Semperon Sytems
• Brand Launcher
• Karabulut & Yasosky LLP
• Naskonix Kitchen Solutions Corp.
• Brach Eichler LLC
• Sertbas Inc.
• MSPC
• Kulen Law, P.C.
• Metropolitan Graphic Art Gallery
• Paul Hasting LLP
• Team of America Consulting
• Cimoglu Jewelry

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS:

Our Flower Decoration Sponsor

Turkish-American Relationship Speech: By Francis J. Ricciardone, Jr.

On Thursday, Oct, 9, 2014, Turkish-American Chamber Of Commerce & Industry-TACCI organized a seminar with the keynote speaker been the former United States Ambassador to Turkey, Francis J. Ricciardone, Jr. The seminar was held in Gilbert Albert Gallery and followed by a networking event during which the guests had a chance to visit the jewelry exhibition at the gallery.

The seminar started with a brief synopsis about Mr. Ricciardone’s experience as an ambassador to Turkey in the past 4 years. In his speech, the Former Ambassador argues that the relationship between Turkey and the United States has greatly improved in the recent past, especially the business relationship. This is due to the new ways in which the two countries have put in place.

According to Ambassador Ricciardone, there are new principles, actual programs, and study visits between the two countries. Citizens from both countries can now work more freely. However, the former ambassador was quick to emphasize the importance of ensuring safety while doing business.

In addition, Ambassador Ricciardone talked about public communication. He stressed on the importance of the media to be very keen when delivering security information to the public.

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Turkish-American Relationship Speech: By Francis J. Ricciardone, Jr.

TACCI was founded in 2002 with the main aim been establishment of strategy and infrastructure required to foster and increase investment opportunities as well as bilateral trade between the U.S. and Turkey. On October 2nd, 2014, the organization hosted a seminar with the Soraya Gutman Morgan being the main speaker who is the vice president of Brand Launcher. The main topic was “how to ZIG when competition Zags”. It was a very interactive conversation that shared very useful marketing advices to both small and mid-sized entrepreneurs.

Soraya discussed the different ways that can be used today to market despite the power of the internet as well as super-competitive business environment. In addition, the seminar explored different out-of-the-box marketing strategies that can be used to make sure that the phones are always ringing and that sales have been boosted. Soraya Morgan took small and mid-sized entrepreneurs through some of the most practical ideas and surprising tips that can be applied immediately to one’s business. Additionally, it was also discussed the different methods that can be used to leverage budget. According to Ms. Morgan, in order control budget, there is a need to target your ideal customer. This means that market segmentation is the key because it helps in establishing ideal clients. Ms. Morgan also talked about the numerous ways that when applied will motivate more sales.

Apart from marketing advices to both small and mid-sized entrepreneurs, Ms. Morgan also reconnoitered how businessmen could overcome resistant prospects with recommendations that work. At the end of the seminar, everyone was satisfied with Ms. Morgan’s talk. This is because they were all equipped with business tools that can be helpful in increasing revenues as well as boosting lead generation.

As of TACCI; president Ali Kocak, board member Mehmet Fırat Polat and executive director Basak Güner paid a visit to Manhattan Chamber of Commerce president Nancy Ploeger on September 25th at their offices. Both chambers discussed on possible areas of collaboration in order to develop the trade relations between Turkey and US.

TACCI President Ali Koçak and Vice President Celal Seçilmiş had a meeting with the President of Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) Rıfat Hisarcıklıoğlu at St. Regis New York on September 24, 2014. During the meeting, Mr. Ali Kocak introduced Mr. Rıfat Hisarcıklıoğlu the mission of TACCI, its activities, and its work. Mr. Rıfat Hisarcıklıoğlu assured that they will support TACCI to be even more successful, and keep the connections alive.

TACCI President Ali Koçak had a private meeting with the Economy Minister of Republic of Turkey Mr. Nihat Zeybekçi in Türkevi in Manhattan on September 24, 2014. During the meeting, Mr. Ali Kocak introduced Mr. Nihat Zeybekçi the mission of TACCI, its activities, and the projects for the near future. Mr. Nihat Zeybekçi said that TACCI is an established organization and it needs to be strengthened, and therefore the Ministry will be supporting TACCI. He also mentioned that the activities and work of TACCI are appreciated.

TACCI President Ali Kocak had a dinner and conversation with the Foreign Minister of Republic of Turkey, Mr. Mevlut Cavusoglu at a restaurant in Manhattan on September 19, 2014. During the meeting, Mr. Ali Kocak introduced Mr. Mevlut Cavusoglu the mission of TACCI, its activities, and its importance for both Turkish and American business relationship. The dinner was in a friendly atmosphere.

President Ali Kocak and Board Member of Turks Living Abroad Committee Ali Cinar met with Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 2nd district of South Carolina the Congressman Joe Wilson at a restaurant in Manhattan on September 15, 2014.

The purpose of the meeting was to establish relationship between TACCI and the state of South Carolina as well as possible opportunities for Turkish investors in SC area. The Congressman emphasized on the growing potential and opportunities in SC for the investors. The Congressman Joe Wilson invited TACCI to visit his office to explore the detail of opportunities and/or anything else.

After Hon. Ertan Yalçın assumed his post as Turkish Consul General in New York, TACCI President Mr. Kocak, TACCI Vice Presidents Mr. Secilmis and Mr. Merc paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Ertan Yalçın at the Turkish Consulate General in New York on September 11th, 2014.

TACCI Board Members discussed TACCI’s role in developing the business cooperation between the two countries and its goal in the future

TACCI President Mr. Kocak expressed his and the Board Members' enthusiasm to take TACCI further and strengthen the bilateral commercial relations between the two Countries with the support of Consul General. The Consul General expressed his willingness of support TACCI’s efforts.

Mr. Kocak, on behalf of the TACCI Board and Officers, thanked the Consul General for the privilege of meeting with them, and extended warm welcomes and good wishes to Consul General Ertan Yalçın for taking the post of Turkish Consul General in New York .

We would like to thank to Consul General Ertan Yalçın for his kind hospitality

A reception was organized by Tayfun Selen a Vice President of Lincoln Education Services to honor Jon Bramnick - the Assembly Republican Leader and John Sette – Republican Party Morris County Chair . It was friendly reception in New Jersey which was attended by TACCI President Ali Kocak. Dr. Kocak presented a plaque on behalf of our organization for appreciation of their support to Turkish businesses in New Jersey.

On September 11, 2014, TACCI President Ali Kocak, Vice Presidents Celal Secilmis and Mustafa Merc, TACCI Board Member Bahadir Inozu hosted Murat Yalçıntaş, TABC Vice Chairman Ekim Alptekin, New York Commercial Attache Serhan Kara and other guests over lunch at Bice Ristorante. The meeting was held in a very friendly manner. During the meeting TACCI President Ali Kocak discussed what Turkish American Chamber of Commerce & Industry's mission and goals for the future. Murat Yalçıntaş showed his support to the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce & Industry for bringing Turkish and American firms together to increase trade and investment between Turkey and USA.

On September 10th, 2014 President Ali Kocak and Vice President John Driscoll were invited by the Harvard Business School Club of New York to attend an Evening with Hamdi Ulukaya founder of Chobani the fastest growing start up in the world. They had a chance to meet with Turkish born Hamdi and talk to him about the work and goals of TACCI. They invited him to meet TACCI members when his schedule permits and he said he looks forward to it.

Meeting with Italy-America Chamber of Commerce:

As of TACCI; Secretary General Mr. Mark Meirowitz and Executive Director Basak Guner paid a visit to Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Secretary General Mr. Franco De Angelis and Marketing Coordinator Ms. Allison Errante on August 28th at their offices. Both chambers discussed on possible areas of collaboration in order to develop the trade relations between these countries with US.

Meeting with Consulate of the Republic of Kazakhstan:

TACCI President Dr. Ali Koçak and Mr. Mehmet Firat Polat, TACCI Board Member met with the Consul General of Kazakhstan in New York, Ms. Raushan Yesbulatova and the Consul of Kazakhstan in New York, Mr. Yerlan Kubashev at their office discussing possible collaborations of TACCI with Kazakh businesses operating in New York and on how to increase bilateral business and investment opportunities between Turkey and Kazakhstan and the United States.

TACCI Paid a Courtesy visit to Mission of Turkey to the UN:

On August 29, 2014 TACCI President Dr. Ali Kocak paid a courtesy visit to Permanent Representative of Republic of Turkey to the United Nations, Hon. Yasar Halit Cevik at the Permanent Mission of Turkey to the United Nations.

During the meeting, the emphasis was put on the importance of investment and commercial relations between Turkey and the United States as well as TACCI’s role in developing the business cooperation between the two countries. The discussion centered on plans and activities of TACCI. The Ambassador expressed his willingness of support TACCI’s efforts in strengthening the bilateral commercial relations between the two Countries.

President Ali Kocak, TACCI Audit Committee Mehmet Bilici, Board Member of Turks Living Abroad Committee Ali Cinar, President of Azerbaijan Society of America Tomris Azeri, and Co-founder of Turk of America Cemil Ozyurt had a business meeting with the U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 9th congressional district Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. in August 25th. The main purpose of meeting was to introduce TACCI and TACCI's activities, discuss trade and investment opportunities and difficulties that Turkish businessmen faces in the U.S.A. particularly in NJ area, and how to improve their business and create business opportunities and Congressman's possible participation in the TACCI's member meetings in the future. Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. would like to cooperate with any necessary projects of TACCI.

TACCI President Mr. Ali Kocak and Treasurer Ms. Mine Anlar met with Permanent Representative of the Republic of Tajikistan to the United Nations, Mr. Mahmadamin Mahmadaminov on August 14, 2014. Also, Mr. Ali Kocak and Ms. Mine Anlar met with Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations, Mr. Kairat Abdrakhmanov and Third Secretary of Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations, Mr. Magzhan Tobayakov on the same day. The objectives of the discussion on the both meetings were introduction of TACCI and TACCI's activities, mission of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan representatives, and future cooperation in areas of investment and trade relations between Tajikistan/ Kazakhstan/ U.S.A & Turkey.

Coauthors Mr. Ugur Alkan and Dr. Sadeka Afrose released their new book Titled, “Exploitation of Capitalism.” The book debut event took place in Central Library in Brooklyn, NY on August 13.

The book describes how Capitalism system prevailed over other systems of governance: it carried out the corruption, unfair practices of trade, and how capitalism is ruling the political and financial systems.

Authors' bios:

Ugur Alkan is a proficient researcher & writer especially in social and philosophical subjects. His educational background includes a B.A. In Communication and M.B.A. In management from Fort Hays State University (Hays, KS). He has been diligently observing the evolution of social and physical sciences for numerous years. He is the father of two wonderful kids and married to Goksen Dogan-Alkan.

Sadeka Afrose: Born and raised in Bangladesh, Dr. Afrose moved to the United States in the year 2000. She had her post educational training in New York Methodist Hospital and did her residency at Legacy Emanuel Hospital. Her other interests include reading, writing and traveling. She is a proud mother of two children and married to her husband of 14 years, Nasir Chowdhury.

As of TACCI; president Ali Kocak, vice presidents John Driscoll and Mustafa Merc, and executive director Basak Guner paid a visit to Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce president Nancy Papaioannou vice president Louis Katsos on July 25th at their offices. Both chambers discussed on possible areas of collaboration in order to develop the trade relations between these countries with US.

On 29th of July, Kazakhstan Chamber of Commerce executive director Ms. Julia Fattorini deputy executive director Arlan Yerzhanov visited TACCI president and executive director at our office. We initiated to increase relationship to create mutual benefits for both chambers.

Mr. Ali Kocak, The President of TACCI, had a business meeting with Assemblyman Gordon Johnson, the leader of the delegation of New Jersey Legislators and Chair of Assembly of Commerce and Economic Development Committee, on Friday, August 1st. The Vice President of TACCI, Mr. Mustafa Merc also participated in the meeting.

Bilateral trade and economic development between Turkey and New Jersey were the main subject areas that were discussed during the meeting. In addition, it was also discussed how to organize joint seminars and events for Chambers of Commerce and Business people from Turkey in the future.

TACCI President Dr. Ali Koçak and Mr. Ali Çınar, Board Member of Turks Living Abroad Committee and Tomris Azeri, President of Azerbaijan Society of America met with the congressman Donald Payne, Jr. at his Newark office discussing possible collaborations of TACCI with Newark district on how to increase bilateral business and investment opportunities between Turkey and the State of New Jersey.

On July 10th, 2014 TACCI President Mr. Ali Kocak and Board Members Ms. Bakir, Mr. Ogmen, Mr. Polat and Mr. Secilmis met with H.E. Ambassador Serdar Kilic, TOBB President Mr. Rifat Hisarciklioglu, and Vice President Mr. Murat Yalcintas in Washington, DC.

During the meeting, the emphasis was put on the importance of strengthening of bilateral commercial relations between Turkey and the United States and the continuity of communication.

The meeting was followed by an Iftar Dinner at Turkish Embassy in Washington, DC.

Founded in New York in 2002, the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce & Industry (TACCI) is a private, not-for-profit membership organziation aiming to promote and increase the bilateral trade potential and investment levels between Turkey and the United States.

For further information , please contact Basak Guner, TACCI Executive Director at

As the Turkish-American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TACCI), we met the exporter companies from Turkey at the Javits Convention Center and visited all the stands one by one on Sunday.

We discussed with the Turkish companies how to increase the trade volume and how to increase the promotion of Turkish products in the USA.

We conveyed the news that as the Turkish-American Chamber of Commerce and Industry, we started the efforts to build business cooperation between them and our member companies.

Participants have expressed their interests in getting involved in the American market aslong as such strong links are built for doing business with TACCI members.

Participants have expressed their interests in getting involved in the American market aslong as such strong links are built for doing business with TACCI members.

Founded in New York in 2002, the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce & Industry (TACCI) is a private, not-for-profit membership organziation aiming to promote and increase the bilateral trade potential and investment levels between Turkey and the United States.

For further information , please contact Basak Guner, TACCI Executive Director at

North America's largest food exhibition takes place between June 29 and July 1 at the Javits Center in New York City with the participation of 2400 entrepreneurs from 80 countries. The 3-day exhibition will end on Tuesday.

This exhibition has attracted great attention due to its importance in terms of promoting Turkish products to the American market.

We found out that it was the first time at this fair for some of the companies while some other companies has been participating for many years and getting positive results.

As Turkish American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TACCI) Board of Directors, we welcomed our guests. We have been in contact with the participants and visited their tables at the exhibition. We looked for the ways to be of use in the coming days. We, as TACCI will continue to put our efforts to increase their share of the American Market.

We are congratulating the exhibitors for taking part in such a wonderful organization and wishing them success.

Founded in New York in 2002, the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce & Industry (TACCI) is a private, not-for-profit membership organziation aiming to promote and increase the bilateral trade potential and investment levels between Turkey and the United States.

For further information , please contact Basak Guner, TACCI Executive Director at

Semra Ecer is an important Turkish Jewelry designer with an original voice in contemporary Turkish art. Ms. Ecer brings an old-world sensuality to the modern world. In her art, it is inevitable to enjoy the beauty of the precious stones along with the rustic simplicity of the hand-forged metal.

Over the years, she created more than 5000 original designs and exhibited her work not only in Topkapi Palace museum but also in New York, Paris, Frankfurt, and Marbella.

When Semra Ecer visited Gilbert Albert’s store in New York a couple of months ago, she noticed the irrefutable synergy and similarity between both of their sources of inspirations. Gilbert Albert, a Swiss jeweler and artist, has been creating visionary pieces for 60 years. Gilbert Albert and Semra Ecer are two distinctive artists with similar inspirations but different approaches in their expressions.

In that spectacular evening of May 28, TACCI Board Member, Celal Secilmis with a speech introduced the Artist and announce the collaboration between Gilbert Albert and Semra Ecer.

North America's largest food exhibition takes place between June 29 and July 1 at the Javits Center in New York City with the participation of 2400 entrepreneurs from 80 countries. The 3-day exhibition will end on Tuesday.

More than 200 invitees enjoyed their time with the unique collections of Semra Ecer and Gilbert Albert and fantastic Turkish wines from the House of Burgundy along with the great appetizers from Turkuaz Restaurant. The evening was attended by numerous notable figures from the business world as well as many New York art & jewelry lovers. The Consul General of The Republic of Turkey, Hon. Levent Bilgen and Mrs. Bilgen, Madam Ambassador Nihal Cevik, Turkish Culture and Tourism Attache, Ms Fatos Ozsoy were also among the participants at the exhibition.

Surprise of the night was award winning raffle. Two of the lucky guests left the gallery with the rings designed by Semra Ecer and Gilbert Albert. Moreover the guests enjoyed 10% discount on each of their purchases of jewelry. We are also glad to inform you that throughout this first week, 10% of each of your purchases will be donated to the Turkish Philanthropy Fund’s Women Entrepreneurs Project by Semra Ecer and Gilbert Albert.

Semra Ecer Collection can be viewed and purchased at Gilbert Albert Gallery located at 43 West 57th Street.

"TACCI ANNUAL GALA 2014" WAS A SUCCESS!

TACCI Annual Gala 2014 Hosted More Than 150 People at the New York Athletic Club Last Friday

Turkish American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TACCI) held its annual gala on Friday, April 4th,2014 at the NY Athletic Club with the attendance of more than 150 people, including Turkish, American and International state dignitaries, top company executives and representatives, TACCI board members and many other guests.

The keynote speakers were H.E. Levent Bilgen (Consul General of Turkey in the US), H.E. Mehmet Dana (Representative of TRNC in New York) and Mr. Celal Seçilmiş (TACCI President). H.E. Levent Bilgen expressed his content about TACCI's important role in the Turkish-American business relations and congratulated Mr. Celal Seçilmiş's hard work in 4 years of his presidency.

Mr. Celal Seçilmiş presented plaques to H. E. Levent Bilgen and H.E. Mehmet Dana. In his speech the former president Mr. Celal Seçilmiş, thanked all the board members of the term 2012-2014 for their efforts to improve the business relationship between Turkey and USA.

The sponsors to TACCI's Annual Gala were GramAltın USA Inc., Kalara New York, Omni Corporate Solutions, Turkish Airlines, TURKON Line America and Vakıfbank New York Branch. Special items were also available for the silent auction throughout the night, where a lot of guests won the chance to dine at the best Turkish restaurants in town or to spend a weekend in a fabulous hotel at Upper East Side, New York, NY.

The donations for the silent auction and the raffle were made by several companies including AdFresh, Ali Baba Turkish Cuisine, Artist Ylenia Mino, GramAltin USA Inc., Gulluoglu USA, Istikbal Furniture USA, Kalara New York, Kayhan Civelek DDS, MS, PC, Ogmen Law PLLC, Pera Soho, Polat Law Firm, Rota International Inc., Sarar USA, Semra Ecer, Sultan Magazine, The Marmara Manhattan Hotel, Tulair International Corp, Turkish Airlines.

During the evening Dan Myers Orchestras played famous jazz standards and provided an elegant New York ambiance, which were accompanied by the delicious food and the premium wines provided by Kalara New York (Thanks to Ms. Nesli Ciner).

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS:

Gala Sponsors:

RAFFLE & SILENT AUCTION SPONSORS:

ADFRESH

ALI BABA TURKISH RESTAURANT

DR. KAYHAN CIVELEK

GRAMALTIN USA INC. / HALACH GOLD

GULLUOGLU USA

ISTIKBAL FURNITURE USA

KALARA IMPORT

OGMEN LAW

PERA SOHO

ROTA INTERNATINAL

POLAT LAW FIRM

SARAR USA

SEMRA ECER

SULTAN MAGAZINE

THE MARMARA MANHATTAN HOTEL

TURKISH AIRLINES

TULAIR INTERNATIONAL CORP

YLENIA MINO

After the 2014 Turkish American Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s (TACCI) elections for the Board of Directors, the first courtesy visit of TACCI President Mr. Tasciyan, New York Commercial Attache Mr. Kara, Board Members Ms. Ekmekci, Ms. Bakir, Mr. Meirowitz, Mr. Erimli and TACCI Director Ms. Guner was held to the Consul General of The Republic of Turkey Hon. Levent Bilgen and Deputy Consul General Ms. Ayten Eler at the Turkish Consulate General in New York on April 24th, 2014.

During the meeting, the emphasis was put on the importance of commercial and industrial relations between Turkey and the United States as well as TACCI’s role in developing the business cooperation between the two countries. It is also emphasized that the bilateral commercial relations between Turkey and the United States should always continue to be strengthened and the continuity of communication should be ensured.

TACCI President Mr. Aret Tasciyan expressed his and the newly elected Board Members' enthusiasm and TACCI's mission during his tenure and the way that he will implement them.

The Consul General expressed his willingness of support TACCI’s efforts in strengthening the bilateral commercial relations between the two Countries.

The discussion centered on plans and activities of TACCI and how the Consulate and TACCI can work together effectively in the future.

The delegation was given an enthusiastic and warm welcome by Consul General Bilgen.

Mr. Tasciyan, on behalf of the TACCI Board and Officers, thanked the Consul General and his associates for the privilege of meeting with them today - and stated that TACCI looks forward to working together with the Turkish Consulate in the future.

The Consul General emphasized the increasing role of Turkish Companies in American market but reiterated the need of increasing the number of Turkish entrepreneurs within the U.S. and the importance of TACCI’s role in this regard.

We would like to thank to Consul General Levent Bilgen for his kind hospitality.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REQUEST THE PLEASURE OF YOUR COMPANY AT THE

TURKISH-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

FRIDAY, APRIL 4, 2014

THE NEW YORK ATHLETIC CLUB

180 Central Park South

New York, NY 10019

6:00 pm - 11:00 pm

RECEPTION - DINNER - LIVE JAZZ MUSIC

To purchase tickets, please use the Credit Card Authorization form below or contact our offices.

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES CREDIT CARD AUTHORIZATION FORM FOR TICKETS

Opportunities for sponsorship and silent auction donations are available.

For more information, please contact Ms.Cagsenin Ar, TACCI Director. /