New Chapter in UK–Türkiye Trade Relations as ASKON Names Cahit Tuz Coordinator
By Hulya Ozkoyuncu
The Istanbul-based Anatolian Lions Businessmen’s Association (ASKON) has appointed businessman Cahit Tuz as its United Kingdom Coordinator, marking a new step in efforts to strengthen economic ties between Türkiye and Britain.
The announcement was made during a working visit to London led by ASKON Vice Chairman and Head of Foreign Relations Ercan Vergili. The delegation held a series of high-level meetings aimed at expanding commercial cooperation between the two countries.
During the visit, Vergili met with Türkiye’s Ambassador to London, Osman Koray Ertaş, along with representatives of economic and trade institutions operating in the British capital. The ASKON delegation also convened with Turkish and international business leaders active in the UK market.
Addressing participants at a business gathering, Vergili underlined the growing importance of the United Kingdom within ASKON’s global outreach strategy. He said the association continues to align its international activities with Türkiye’s broader economic vision and aims to deepen trade, investment and innovation partnerships abroad.
Vergili announced that following nearly a year of preparatory work, ASKON had formally appointed Cahit Tuz as UK Coordinator. He highlighted Tuz’s previous experience in public service and his current business activities in Britain, expressing strong confidence in his leadership.
According to ASKON officials, the organisation’s UK roadmap includes establishing an ASKON UK Economic Forum, launching a Turkish–British SME Innovation Programme, developing a joint fintech and technology incubation centre, supporting academic R&D initiatives, and working toward the creation of a Turkish Trade Centre in London.
Speaking after his appointment, Tuz said he is fully aware of the responsibility the role carries and pledged to work closely with both Turkish and British stakeholders. He added that the newly formed team would dedicate its efforts to advancing sustainable economic cooperation between the two countries.
The appointment is seen as part of broader initiatives aimed at reinforcing the steadily expanding UK–Türkiye business corridor.
