Izmir Economic Congress

Historical Significance and Background

The Izmir Economic Congress, which was the first economic congress of the Republic of Turkey, began on December 11, 1925. This congress aimed to ensure Turkey's economic independence and to establish national economic policies.

In the 1920s, Turkey faced economic challenges after the National Struggle. The country was struggling with the economic crisis caused by the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. During this period, Turkey needed to take strategic steps to strengthen its national economy and break away from dependence on foreign countries.

The Izmir Economic Congress was organized to determine Turkey's economic policies during this challenging period and to create a roadmap for the future. The congress is considered an important step in establishing national economic policies to ensure Turkey's economic independence.

Development of the Event

Preparations for the Congress

There was a preparation process before the organization of the Izmir Economic Congress. Calls were made for the congress, and speakers and participants were determined. The main agenda of the congress was to find solutions to Turkey's economic problems and establish national economic policies.

Commencement of the Congress

The congress, held in Izmir on December 11, 1925, started with a large attendance. The opening speech of the congress was given by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey. Atatürk emphasized the importance of determining national economic policies to ensure Turkey's economic independence.

Decisions of the Congress

The Izmir Economic Congress made a series of decisions regarding Turkey's economic policies. The congress addressed the country's problems in areas such as agriculture, industry, trade, and finance, and presented solution proposals. The congress also aimed to promote domestic and national production to ensure Turkey's economic independence.

Results and Effects

The Izmir Economic Congress was a turning point in determining Turkey's economic policies. The results of the congress have short-term and long-term effects.

Short-Term Effects

The short-term effects of the congress include addressing Turkey's economic problems and presenting solution proposals. The congress increased awareness of the country's economic policies and accelerated the establishment of national economic policies.

Long-Term Results

The long-term results of the Izmir Economic Congress include the achievement of Turkey's economic independence and the establishment of national economic policies. The congress aimed to reduce Turkey's dependence on foreign countries, promote domestic and national production, and accelerate economic development.

Social and Political Changes

The results of the Izmir Economic Congress led to significant changes in Turkey's economy. After the congress, infrastructure works for economic development were initiated, the industrial and agricultural sectors were improved, and steps were taken to regulate trade and foreign relations. These changes played an important role in Turkey's modernization process.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present Day

The historical significance of the Izmir Economic Congress still continues today. The congress is an important step in ensuring Turkey's economic independence and establishing national economic policies.

Effects on the Modern World

The Izmir Economic Congress played a significant role in Turkey's integration into the modern world. After the congress, Turkey's economic relations with the world strengthened, and important steps were taken to develop international trade. Turkey used the results of the congress as a roadmap to achieve economic independence and compete in the global economy.

Importance in the Present Day

The importance of the Izmir Economic Congress in the present day stems from its establishment of the foundations of Turkey's economic policies. The results of the congress are considered the beginning of Turkey's economic development process. Today, Turkey focuses on economic growth and sustainable development by continuing the vision of the Izmir Economic Congress.

Lessons Learned

The Izmir Economic Congress was a turning point for Turkey, and the lessons learned are still important today. The congress emphasized the importance of Turkey's economic independence. It also highlighted the importance of a participatory approach in determining national economic policies. These lessons are still used in economic decision-making processes and policy-making today.