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Türkiye has secured €191.5 million ($219.4 million) in World Bank financing to help expand urban transport networks, improve water services and strengthen local governments' capacity in two of the country's fastest-growing cities.
Approved by the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors, the loan will be channeled through state lender Ilbank under a government guarantee. The package is intended to help municipalities address rising infrastructure needs driven by population growth and urban expansion.
The funding comes under the Green and Future Cities Project, which seeks to improve public services while helping cities better cope with climate-related challenges.
According to the World Bank, the loan will finance projects in Antalya and Konya, where growing demand for public transportation, drinking water, sanitation and energy systems has increased pressure on local services.
"Türkiye’s cities are key drivers of economic growth and job creation but also face increasing pressures from rapid urbanization and climate change," World Bank Country Director for Türkiye J. Humberto Lopez said.
"This project will help municipalities invest in modern, resilient infrastructure while strengthening their capacity to plan and finance sustainable urban development."
Planned works include tramline expansions, the deployment of low-emission public transport vehicles, and upgrades to water supply, wastewater treatment and sanitation facilities. The program will also support energy-efficiency measures and initiatives aimed at helping urban areas adapt to climate risks, including floods, droughts and extreme heat.
The World Bank noted that municipalities will also receive guidance in developing investment-ready projects, improving institutional capacity and expanding access to long-term funding sources.
"By combining financing with technical expertise, this project will help cities develop bankable, climate-smart investments and improve their access to long-term financing," project task team leader Ahmet Kindap said.
The lender added that the program aligns with Türkiye’s development priorities and is expected to lower greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy performance and help cities withstand climate-related risks while supporting economic activity and job creation.
Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek said Türkiye has secured nearly $4.5 billion in favorable external financing so far in 2026.
"With our economic program that prioritizes sustainable growth and social welfare, and within the framework of the Medium-Term Program, our support for municipal infrastructure investments and efforts to combat climate change will continue strongly," Simsek said.
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