From cradle of civilization to modern trade and technology metropolis
Istanbul is the perfect venue to bring together cabin safety specialists from around the globe for 2019. It is the confluence of east and west, the only city in the world to straddle two continents. Its long and venerable history, at the meeting point of land and sea trade routes, has made it the center of Turkey’s economic life and a highly cosmopolitan city. With the opening of the Istanbul New Airport, it will become a connecting point for much of the world’s air travel, and is poised to play an increasingly active role in the future of aviation and global transport.
Istanbul is also, of course, a center for tourism. Home to three empires, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman, it has an impressive history and remnants of all three cultures. The eighth most visited city in the world in 2016, and European Capital of Culture in 2010, it is also a city for the foodie. Turkish food is reputed to be one of the great cuisines of the world, and can be found in abundance all over the city, alongside international restaurants.
Over 15 million inhabitants, about 20% of the total population of Turkey, make Istanbul the country’s richest city, bringing in 40% of taxes. It is home to almost one third of all Turkish commercial firms. As the financial capital of the country, the Istanbul Stock Exchange and the headquarters of the biggest companies in Turkey can be found there. As the industrial center of the country, it is responsible for 38% of industrial output, transforming cotton, olive oil, fruit, silk and tobacco grown in the surrounding countryside, and producing pharmaceuticals.
Such vibrancy, coupled with the trade advantages Istanbul’s unique location offers, has attracted foreign interest. The textile manufacturing operations of worldwide apparel companies are situated here, as well as the Turkish main offices of major international banks.
And it’s not just traditional industries that have benefitted from foreign investment. Istanbul has birthed many technology startups, in a wide array of activities including e-commerce and payment, entertainment and video platforms, and increasingly cloud, mobile and big data solutions for B2B. Foreign investment has kick-started the sector, but it is now also a focal point for over 40 local venture capitalists. Additional support for budding entrepreneurs comes from the well-developed co-working infrastructure.
Venue: Swissotel The Bosphorus
Swissotel The Bosphorus, Istanbul, is a five-star luxury hotel right in the center of Istanbul, on the European banks of the Bosphorus. Its outstanding views, award-winning spa, exclusive rooftop pool, and 65 acres of very rare, private historical gardens, provide an island of tranquility and calm, right in the heart of the city.
The hotel is within walking distance of Nisantasi where many designer shops, exclusive restaurants and lively bars can be found. Istanbul’s historic area with the Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque is only a 15-minute drive away.
