"Europe has been a big drag on the Turkish economy because Europe is our largest trading partner in terms of exports but also in terms of supply of FDI (foreign direct investment) and tourism arrivals."  Turkey has experienced rapid growth over the last 10 years, earning it the nickname the "new tiger" of emerging markets. Turkey's gross domestic product (GDP) grew a massive 9.2 percent in 2010 but by 2012, alongside a global slowdown, the economy expanded "just" 2.1 percent, according to World Bank data. By December 2014, the World Bank forecast that economic growth was likely to be 3 percent. In 2015, the economy is expected to grow 3.5 percent.  Earlier this week, the Turkish central bank cut its benchmark interest rate for the first time in six months – to 7.75 percent -- following political pressure for lower borrowing costs and a perception that inflation is falling. However, the move drew a swift rebuke from some government ministers – including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan – who said it was not sufficient to stimulate the economy.  Simsek told CNCB that there was no split in the government but that there was a debate over the central bank's monetary policy stance. He insisted that the central bank was independent, despite concerns to the contrary. "Let's face it, in many countries you get this kind of political debate over where the central bank rates should be but in terms of policy action they've been independent and done a good job."  The lower price of oil – which has fallen around 60 percent since June 2014 – will also act as a fillip for Turkey, Simsek said.  "High commodity prices have been a big headwind for Turkey and now it's turning into a tailwind so clearly it will help because every $10 decline in oil prices improves Turkey's current account deficit by close to $4.5 billion or 0.5 percent of GDP – that's huge – plus it helps reduce headline inflation and gives people more disposable income."  "All in all, it's good news. Having said that, we also realize that in our neighborhood, all those oil-exporting countries will suffer so our exports to our immediate neighbors could suffer to some extent."
The ECB's quantitative easing and the decline in the price of oil are the best things that could happen for Turkey, the finance minister said.