Riyadh: International Dates Council Executive Director Princess Sarah bint Bandar bin Abdulaziz met with Turkish Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Emrullah Isler at the Turkish Embassy in Riyadh today. During the meeting, they reviewed the council's work, objectives, and role in supporting the global dates sector. They also explored opportunities for Trkiye to join the council, as well as the procedures for completing its membership.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Trkiye is one of the world's leading importers of dates. In 2025, it imported 67,093 tonnes valued at $133.7 million. The Turkish ambassador expressed interest in learning more about the council's work, programs, initiatives, and membership procedures.

The International Dates Council serves as a global reference body for developing and regulating the dates sector, bringing together date-producing, exporting, and importing countries. The council works to harmonize international frameworks and standards for the sector and build a reliable knowledge and data ecosystem. It also seeks to enhance the economic value of dates, strengthen their presence in global markets, and support the sector's long-term sustainability.