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Turkey-Abu Dhabi joint venture talks for Izmir Port continue, sources state

Turkey's talks with statecontrolled Abu Dhabi Port (ADP) to establish a joint endeavor for operating rights of the Aegean port of Izmir are continuing, 2 sources knowledgeable about the matter informed Reuters.

In December, Reuters reported that Abu Dhabi was interested in purchasing a stake to run Izmir Port, in a possible offer that could be valued at about $500 million.

Changes in local competition and capacity conditions delayed the closing of the deal, 2 sources stated, adding that settlements continued to try to finalise it.

Turkey carried out talks with other potential purchasers however decided to advance with ADP. Altering competition and capability conditions delayed the final arrangement. Settlements continue, the source said.

The 2nd source stated Izmir Port, which released its operations in 1959, had strong logistic connections but required financial investment.

Izmir Port, which remains in the portfolio of the Turkish Wealth Fund (TWF), is among the biggest ports in Turkey in regards to container volume and freight tonnage.

The TWF stated in a written action to Reuters questions that it wished to create included value for the country and the port.

As the Turkey Wealth Fund, we continue our work for the possible benefit of our country, in line with our goal of developing the highest included worth for our country and Izmir Port and increasing the value of our assets, it stated.

ADP was not instantly offered for remark.

(source: Reuters)