David Reed new British Consul General in Istanbul
David Reed took up his post as the new British Consul General in Istanbul and Trade Commissioner for Eastern Europe and Central Asia on April 13, 2026. An experienced diplomat, Reed will focus on strengthening trade relations with Turkey and the region.
Media release from David Reed MBE, General Consul in Istanbul and Trade Commissioner for Eastern Europe and Central Asia:
Today I start as His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and British Consul General to Istanbul.
Eastern Europe and Central Asia is a region of over 380 million people, with fast-growing economies and a strong appetite for international partnership with the UK.
My focus is clear: to strengthen trade and investment ties, support UK businesses in succeeding across these markets, and promote inward investment into the UK.
Alongside this, in Istanbul I will be working to deepen the UK’s relationship with Türkiye across business, government and wider partnerships. Having previously lived in both Istanbul and Izmir, it’s a place I’m delighted to be returning to.
At its core, this role is about making things happen: opening doors, solving problems, and connecting the right people.
I look forward to collaborating with partners across the region to forge strong, practical partnerships.
Media release from Kenan Poleo, Director of the Office for Life Sciences UK (as of 1st May ):
Welcome and congratulations David Reed MBE It was a privilege to work across such a dynamic region, where the UK has built strong and ever growing partnerships. It’s a brilliant role, with exceptional teams across the region. All the very best m‘colleague! İyi şanslar!
And please do follow David if you want to know and keep up to date with all his and the teams work across the region.
for more: gov.uk/government/people/david-reed
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David Reed - Kenan Poleo
