As Turkey-based multi-sector conglomerate MES Group unveiled its global growth strategy, Chairman Mert Şener emphasized that the most critical factor in investment decisions is the rule of law and the integrity of the justice system. In an exclusive interview in Reuters, Şener noted that this approach is closely tied not only to commercial profitability but also to personal security, corporate reputation, and the moral fabric of society.
Operating in sectors such as food, tourism, and construction across Turkey, MES Group has identified the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and European Union countries as its primary international targets. According to Şener, these countries foster investor confidence not only through economic stability but also via independent, impartial, and predictable legal systems.
“For me, the most important criterion is a legal system that functions equally and fairly for everyone,” Şener stated. “The U.S., Canada, the U.K., and EU countries set an example in this regard. In these countries, individuals and institutions are free to speak and act, and decision-making processes rely on concrete evidence. If an accusation is made against you, the evaluation is based not on personal opinions but on facts and objective rules.”
Şener pointed out that in countries where the legal system is weak, the risks faced by individuals and businesses extend beyond financial losses to include social and psychological consequences:
“This isn’t limited to commercial matters—it directly affects personal lives as well. In some countries, even if you are innocent, you can still be punished as a result of processes based on slander. Later, you’re forced to continue your life with nothing more than an apology and a small compensation. This deeply undermines both personal freedom and long-term life planning.”
Addressing the public image of young, successful entrepreneurs, Şener acknowledged that early achievement can sometimes come with drawbacks:
“Unfortunately, when you’re a successful businessperson at a young age and become a well-liked figure in society, it brings popularity—but also scrutiny. The more people who support you, the more who don’t. There are those who are proud of your success, but also those who can’t accept it—low-profile individuals who aren’t constructive. That’s why I don’t want to stay in environments where I feel uneasy or unsafe.”
In this context, Şener referenced Proverbs 19:5 to underline his commitment to legal and moral values:
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who lies will not escape.”
According to Şener, such universal principles reflect not just a business stance, but also a broader ethical, social, and human responsibility. In addition to leading MES Group, Şener also serves as President of the Turkish Education Federation, and he stressed that a strong legal system is fundamentally supported by quality education:
“In countries with high educational standards—where critical thinking and a sense of justice are promoted—such injustices occur far less frequently. A good education system doesn’t just produce skilled professionals; it nurtures a society with conscience.”
These remarks highlight that MES Group is pursuing not only economic expansion but also a value-driven international vision. Şener concluded by emphasizing that countries with strong legal systems offer long-term security and stability for both individuals and institutions:
“Investing even a single dollar in a country where the legal system doesn’t function properly is a huge gamble.”
This strategic outlook clearly reflects MES Group’s cautious yet determined path toward global growth.
Operating in sectors such as food, tourism, and construction across Turkey, MES Group has identified the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and European Union countries as its primary international targets. According to Şener, these countries foster investor confidence not only through economic stability but also via independent, impartial, and predictable legal systems.
“For me, the most important criterion is a legal system that functions equally and fairly for everyone,” Şener stated. “The U.S., Canada, the U.K., and EU countries set an example in this regard. In these countries, individuals and institutions are free to speak and act, and decision-making processes rely on concrete evidence. If an accusation is made against you, the evaluation is based not on personal opinions but on facts and objective rules.”
Şener pointed out that in countries where the legal system is weak, the risks faced by individuals and businesses extend beyond financial losses to include social and psychological consequences:
“This isn’t limited to commercial matters—it directly affects personal lives as well. In some countries, even if you are innocent, you can still be punished as a result of processes based on slander. Later, you’re forced to continue your life with nothing more than an apology and a small compensation. This deeply undermines both personal freedom and long-term life planning.”
Addressing the public image of young, successful entrepreneurs, Şener acknowledged that early achievement can sometimes come with drawbacks:
“Unfortunately, when you’re a successful businessperson at a young age and become a well-liked figure in society, it brings popularity—but also scrutiny. The more people who support you, the more who don’t. There are those who are proud of your success, but also those who can’t accept it—low-profile individuals who aren’t constructive. That’s why I don’t want to stay in environments where I feel uneasy or unsafe.”
In this context, Şener referenced Proverbs 19:5 to underline his commitment to legal and moral values:
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who lies will not escape.”
According to Şener, such universal principles reflect not just a business stance, but also a broader ethical, social, and human responsibility. In addition to leading MES Group, Şener also serves as President of the Turkish Education Federation, and he stressed that a strong legal system is fundamentally supported by quality education:
“In countries with high educational standards—where critical thinking and a sense of justice are promoted—such injustices occur far less frequently. A good education system doesn’t just produce skilled professionals; it nurtures a society with conscience.”
These remarks highlight that MES Group is pursuing not only economic expansion but also a value-driven international vision. Şener concluded by emphasizing that countries with strong legal systems offer long-term security and stability for both individuals and institutions:
“Investing even a single dollar in a country where the legal system doesn’t function properly is a huge gamble.”
This strategic outlook clearly reflects MES Group’s cautious yet determined path toward global growth.
