Mehmet Naim Talu Turkish economist, banker, politician Date of Birth: 22.07.1919 Country: Turkey

Biography of Mehmet Naim Talu

Mehmet Naim Talu was a Turkish economist, banker, and politician. He was born in Istanbul in 1919. After graduating from Istanbul University with a degree in economics in 1943, Talu began working for the state textile company 'Sümerbank'.

In 1946, he moved to the Central Bank of Turkey, where he quickly rose through the ranks. By 1966, he became the deputy general manager, and in 1967, he became the general manager. In 1970, the bank underwent a reorganization, and Talu retained his position as the leader.

Talu entered politics in 1971 when he was appointed to the Ministry of Trade in the second administration of Nihat Erim. He continued to hold this position under Ferit Melen and later, in 1972, President Cevdet Sunay transferred Talu to the Senate.

Eventually, President Fahri Korutürk appointed Talu as the successor to Prime Minister Melen. The 36th government, led by Talu, was formed on April 15, 1973. At that time, the decision was approved by two parties, although Talu's role as prime minister was somewhat temporary.

In the elections of 1973, it became clear that none of the existing parties had a clear advantage. The coalition government formed on January 26, 1974, was led by Bülent Ecevit. This marked the end of Talu's premiership, but he continued to serve in the Senate until 1976.

Overall, his political career was not marked by any particularly significant events. From 1976 onwards, Talu largely left politics and focused on financial affairs. From 1974 to 1976, he served on the board of Akbank, one of Turkey's largest banks, eventually rising to the position of chairman of the board. He held the chairman position until his death.

During the same period, Talu also served on the board of trustees of the Sabancı Foundation VakSA. However, his main focus remained his work at the Central Bank of Turkey.

Mehmet Talu passed away in Istanbul on May 15, 1998, at the age of 80. He was survived by his wife, Gevher Talu, and two daughters, Tülin Talu and Füsun San. Memduh Güpgüpoğlu succeeded Talu as the governor of the Central Bank of Turkey.