On November 22-23, 2011, a conference of Armenian and Turkish businessmen will take place at the Hrazdan Hotel in Yerevan.

The event is organized by the Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen (Employers) of Armenia as part of the “Support to Armenia-Turkey Rapprochement” project, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by the Consortium of the Eurasia Partnership Foundation, Yerevan Press Club, International Center for Human Development and the Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen (Employers) of Armenia.

The Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen (Employers) of Armenia will invite about 30 businessmen who represent different cities and business fields of Turkey including light industry, construction, furniture production, mining, jewelry and trade. Armenian businessmen will also be invited to the conference to discuss opportunities for business cooperation with their Turkish counterparts. Guest speakers will present the current state of affairs and prospects for Armenian-Turkish business cooperation. The conference will also feature an exposition of sample products manufactured by the participants from Turkey, allowing Armenian businessmen to learn about the assortment, quality and production technology of the showcased Turkish products.

During the conference, memoranda on cooperation between Armenian and Turkish businesses, including women-led business, are expected to be signed to help foster business cooperation between the two countries.

USAID and the consortium members support the rapprochement between Armenia and Turkey by facilitating engagement between civil society groups, the establishment and development of business partnerships and regional professional networks, as well as enhanced understanding between the people, for peace and economic integration in the region.