The Shirak Competitiveness Center will hold its annual Shirak EXPO 2011 on November 24, 2011 in Gyumri. This year, the event is organized as part of the “Support to Armenia-Turkey Rapprochement” project, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by the Consortium of the Eurasia Partnership Foundation, Yerevan Press Club, International Center for Human Development and the Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen (Employers) of Armenia. The event will start at 11:00am on November 24 in Hoktember Cinema in Gyumri and will bring together approximately 50 Armenian and 30 Turkish companies to exhibit a variety of products and services including food products, textiles and construction materials. At 15:00, a forum titled “Women Leading Regional Economic Development” will provide a platform for the Shirak EXPO participants to discuss a broad range of topics including the economies of Armenia and Turkey, women’s role and involvement in business, as well as investment risks and opportunities in production and service sectors in the two countries. The Forum will take place in Araks Hotel Conference Hall in Gyumri. Shirak EXPO 2011 will present a unique opportunity for the promotion of Armenian and Turkish business cooperation and the establishment of an informal network of Armenian and Turkish businesswomen. The EXPO will also set grounds for the development of joint business projects between women-led businesses from Armenia and Turkey. USAID and the Consortium Members support Armenia-Turkey rapprochement by facilitating engagement between civil society groups, the establishment and development of business partnerships and regional professional networks, and enhanced understanding between the people, for peace and economic integration in the region.

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