Religion

Although Turkey is 99% Muslim, it is a secular state that guarantees complete freedom of worship to non-Muslims.




Economy

TOURISM

In recent years, Turkey has become a major tourist destination in Europe. With the rapid development of both summer and winter resorts, more and more people from around the world are able to enjoy the history, culture, and beautiful sites of Turkey year round.

AGRICULTURE

This plays a major role in the Turkish economy.
The main crops are wheat, rice, cotton, tea, tobacco, hazelnuts and fruit. Sheep are the most important livestock, and Turkey is one of the major cotton and wool producers.

NATURAL RESOURCES

The principal minerals extracted are coal, chrome (an important export), iron, copper, bauxite, marble and sulphur.

INDUSTRY

Industry is developing rapidly and is directed mainly towards the processing of agricultural products, metallurgy, textiles, and the manufacture of automobiles and agricultural machinery.

Political Structure

Turkey’s population is about 64 million, 40% of whom live in the countryside. The major cities are Istanbul, Ankara (The Capital), Izmir, Adana, Antalya and Bursa.

The Republic of Turkey is based on a secular, democratic, pluralistic and parliamentary system, where human rights are protected by law and social justice. The Grand National Assembly is elected by popular vote, and the nation is governed by the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister. Turkey is a Founding member of OECD, the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization, a member of NATO, the European Council, the Islamic Conference Association, and an associate member of the European Union.