Traders’ body to cut ties with Turkey, Azerbaijan
In a bold show of solidarity with the nation, over 125 leading trade representatives from across 24 states gathered in Delhi for a national conference organised by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), where they unanimously resolved to boycott all trade, business and tourism ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan. The decision comes in response to the two countries’ extending support to Pakistan, amid what CAIT leaders described as a sensitive moment for national security.
Addressing the gathering on Friday, CAIT Secretary General and Member of Parliament Praveen Khandelwal criticised Turkey and Azerbaijan for their “ungrateful” stance. He pointed out that both nations had previously benefited from India’s diplomatic and humanitarian assistance, particularly during their respective crises. “Now, at a time when India needs global solidarity, they have chosen to side with a nation known for supporting terrorism. This is not just a political insult — it is an emotional betrayal of 140 crore Indians,” he said.
CAIT national president BC Bhartia also slammed the two countries, describing their support for Pakistan as “hostile and unacceptable.” He applauded the Indian government’s recent decision to revoke security clearance for Celebi Ground Handling India Pvt. Ltd., a Turkish firm operating at nine major Indian airports, calling it a necessary step in the interest of national security.
Among the key resolutions passed at the conference was a call for an immediate boycott of goods from Turkey and Azerbaijan, cancellation of travel and tourism promotions related to both countries, and a freeze on any new business collaborations. CAIT also announced plans to submit a memorandum to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of External Affairs, urging a comprehensive policy review of all bilateral commercial ties with the two nations.
Former Union Minister and CAIT strategic advisor Smriti Irani praised the traders for putting national pride above profits and announced that she would donate her entire, unclaimed pension as a former MP to the National Defence Fund. “When even small traders are ready to make sacrifices for the country, it becomes our collective responsibility to stand by the soldiers who defend our borders,” she said, receiving a standing ovation.
Irani urged CAIT to launch a nationwide awareness campaign to encourage voluntary contributions to the Defence Fund.
