Şahenk explained that he did not expect it to take long for Turkey to get rid of the problems stemming from the crisis as long as necessary precautions are taken. He stressed that the government has adopted a healthy financial policy over the last five years. "I believe Turkey will continue growing after the crisis is over. Turkey will become one of the most remarkable countries in the world for attracting foreign investors," he said.

Şahenk predicted that the negative effects of the crisis would show up in Turkey in 2009 and that the Turkish economy would face shrinkage. The growth rate will decline, as it will be hard to grow in a period when the money flow has diminished in global markets and investments have slowed. However, he underlined that the Turkish economy was stronger than before, with a well-established banking system and good cooperation between the financial sector and the government. He also thanked Minister of Finance Kemal Unakıtan for his efforts to follow a balanced and disciplined financial policy. He noted that Turkish exports had increased significantly over the last few years and that it was important that Turkey diversify its exported goods.

On the subject of a possible standby deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Şahenk said Turkey should use IMF funds as a precaution against the crisis. "Nine months ago I thought that Turkey did not need IMF funds; however, things have changed and we may need funds in the event of an emergency," he added.

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