Hatay will be the logistics center of the Middle East and the Gulf

Bolat first conducted inspections at the Cilvegözü Border Gate in Reyhanlı district, receiving updates on the ongoing operations. He then visited the Zeytin Dalı (Olive Branch) Border Gate, which was opened five years ago. During his visit, Minister Bolat stated that Hatay would become the heart of trade, emphasizing, "Hatay will be the logistics hub of the Middle East and the Gulf."

Highlighting the devastating impact of the 13-year civil war in Syria and the subsequent earthquake disaster on Hatay, Bolat expressed optimism that the city would regain strength in the field of trade after these challenging times. “December 8th marked the beginning of a new era for Syria. The 61-year Ba’ath regime has come to an end. A new phase of freedom, prosperity, and development is beginning for the Syrian people. In this new period, strong steps will also be taken to enhance relations between Turkey and Syria. Our Cilvegözü, Zeytin Dalı, and Yayladağı border gates—opened on December 12—will play a vital role in this process. Hatay will become the crossroads of trade routes connecting Türkiye to Syria, the Middle East, and the Gulf," he said.

Modernization Begins at Border Gates

The Turkish Minister of Trade announced that trade with Syria would be reorganized in line with this new era and that eight border gates would be modernized as part of the initiative. Bolat emphasized that preparations for strengthening Hatay’s production, investment, and international transportation sectors are being carried out in full coordination. He underlined that the Turkish Ministry of Trade meticulously prepared the projects for this process.

Minister Bolat highlighted the critical importance of the Zeytin Dalı Border Gate in alleviating congestion at the Cilvegözü Border Gate. "The Zeytin Dalı Border Gate will accelerate trade transportation to northeastern Syria and enhance the region’s logistical capacity," he said.

It was emphasized that Hatay is steadily advancing toward becoming the trade hub of the region, with the modernized border gates expected to significantly contribute to both the local economy and international transportation.