Turkey’s first lady highlights role of women in building sustainable world

By Esin Eskinat Sayilgan

NEW YORK (AA) - Turkey’s first lady on Wednesday said that it is up to women to transform the understanding of male-dominated and profit-oriented business world which see nature only as a resource.

The Turkish Business Women's Association (TIKAD) organized a conference, titled Environment Friendly Sustainable Economy and the Role of Businesswomen, with the participation of Emine Erdogan at the newly inaugurated Turkevi Center, or Turkish House, in New York.

The conference was attended by Turkish, American and international business circles as well as representatives of non-governmental organizations, writers and academics.

A panel, titled The Problem of Global Climate Change and Sustainable Solutions, was held as part of the conference.

Speaking at the conference, Erdogan said: “I believe that women’s practical intelligence, transformative power and resilience are extremely important in building a sustainable world.”

“I sincerely believe that our women will carry the flag at the forefront of environmental diplomacy by using their mediation and communication powers,” she said.

The first lady called on international community to act urgently on issues related to climate change and global warming, and to take measures to reduce carbon emissions.

“We must put in place solutions such as clean technology, green energy and the expansion of forest areas. Revolutionary transformations should be made especially in the energy sector,” she said.

“The transition to renewable energy sources is not a social responsibility project, but a necessity,” Erdogan added.

* Writing by Zehra Nur Duz.