Şahin discusses the event's role in highlighting Turkey's maritime prowess, fostering international collaboration, and promoting Istanbul as a key maritime hub. He also points out the essential role of trust in the ship brokerage profession and the global respect Turkish brokers command.
We understand that the Shipbrokers Association is hosting the 6th Annual Bosphorus Shipbrokers Dinner. Can you tell us more about the event and its significance?
Yes, the Bosphorus Shipbrokers Dinner will take place at the Lütfi Kırdar Congress Center on Friday, June 28, 2024. This event is expected to attract around 2500 participants, including approximately 1000 international guests from various countries such as Greece, England, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, Ghana, Singapore, China, and Ukraine. It is a key gathering for leaders and senior executives from the global maritime industry, including brokers, shipowners, charterers, shipyards, ports, and companies involved in the supply of oil, fuel, spare parts, and related industries.
How does this event highlight the Turkish maritime industry's role on the international stage?
The Bosphorus Shipbrokers Dinner underscores the Turkish maritime industry's high level of international integration and compliance with global standards. It also highlights our commitment to the vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who emphasized the importance of maritime as a national ideal. The event serves not only the maritime industry but also contributes to promoting Turkey and Istanbul, enhancing our tourism industry.
Who are some of the notable attendees and organizations participating in this event?
Senior executives from prominent organizations such as BIMCO, FONASBA, FOSFA, ICS, the Hellenic Shipbrokers' Association (HSA), and the Hamburg and Bremen Shipbrokers' Association (VHBS) will be in attendance. Additionally, the opening of ICS Türkiye will take place on June 27, with senior management from ICS participating. We are also honored to have Professor Hercules Haralambides, a respected figure in the international maritime industry, as our honorary guest.
What other similar events has the Turkish Shipbrokers Association participated in?
We have actively participated in several international events, including the Pireas 2023 Ship Broker Dinner and the 73rd Eisbeinessen maritime dinner in Hamburg, Germany. These events allow us to foster international collaboration and promote the Turkish maritime industry on a global stage.
Can you elaborate on the support and sponsorship for this event?
The event is supported by IMEAK DTO (Chamber of Shipping Commerce) as the honorary sponsor, along with numerous other sponsors committed to the success of the organization. We have been preparing for this organization for a long time, and we expect very high international participation. The support from our sponsors has been crucial in making this event a prestigious brand.
What makes the Lütfi Kırdar Congress Center an ideal venue for this event?
Lütfi Kırdar has been a great partner of ours for years. They are very pleased to host such a prestigious event at their venue, and there is a good harmony between us. Our tickets actually sold out months in advance, which shows the event's popularity. If a larger congress center is built in Istanbul, we could potentially host more than 4000 people, similar to events in Hamburg.
How are Turkish Brokers perceived on the international stage?
Turkish Brokers are highly respected in the international arena, thanks to their participation in various international events. The added value created by the maritime industry is significant, and we strive to create awareness of this in Turkey.
What is the foundation of positive perception in the ship brokerage profession?
The basis of the ship brokerage profession is trust. A prudent trader stays away from business that would risk his reputation. Instead of dealing with problem-solving, you need to focus on problem-free tasks and do more work. Professional success comes from building and maintaining trust. Arbitration courts in maritime trade provide certain privileges to those who trade beyond local laws. This gives traders, whether in Turkey or another country, the right to defend their own rights in any conflict situation, regardless of local balances. This brings the local maritime sector closer to international criteria, allowing the country to stay ahead in many matters.
Is there anything else you would like to add about the Bosphorus Shipbrokers Dinner?
This night is an opportunity for world-renowned shipowners and senior managers to come to Turkey, meet with their networks, and improve their relations. Istanbul is a great place for this, offering both business opportunities and holiday experiences. We are excited to welcome everyone to this prestigious event.
