TUSIAD: It is Essential to Implement Measures to Slow The Spread of the Virus Quickly and Effectively

17 Mar 2020
TUSIAD: It is Essential to Implement Measures to Slow The Spread of the Virus Quickly and Effectively

In response to the global spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus epidemic, we have begun a response that should be carried out as quickly as possible and with maximum efficiency.

The high rate of transmission of the virus and the threat that is poses, especially to older people, requires extensive measures to prevent further human suffering. The experiences of other countries affected by the epidemic show the importance of taking early action to minimize the spread of the virus. It is our duty to fully comply with the measures taken by the Ministry of Health and other public institutions.

Precautions to minimize person-to-person spread and prevent crowded environments are critical to reducing risk. It is our shared responsibility to swiftly implement public health measures and to act in full cooperation with the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and individual citizens during this process. In Turkey, we should work together to reduce the transmission of the virus and avoid placing an excessive burden on the healthcare system.

In addition to its impact on public health, the situation is having a demonstrated impact on the economy. Financial risks compounded by fluctuations in global markets, negative impacts on supply chains and exports, and the effects of outbreak measures on domestic demand have left individual economies in a difficult situation. It is essential to ensure rapid implementation of economic measures in order to support continued economic recovery and the overall reduction of unemployment. Towards that end, we are contributing to the work of all relevant ministries.

Unfortunately, Covid-19 has revealed weaknesses in international coordination for combatting humanitarian problems. Wider cooperation within the international community should be mobilized moving forward in order to address future humanitarian crises.

As the business community, we are ready to do our part for the health of our society and economy during this time.