Minister Ataoğlu attends 10th Meeting of the Ministers in Charge of Tourism of OTS

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu attended the 10th Meeting of the Ministers in Charge of Tourism of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held on 9 July 2025, in Ankara.

The meeting was attended by high-level delegations from OTS Member States and observers, including ministers and senior officials in charge of tourism.

In his speech at the meeting Minister Ataoğlu, emphasized the importance of cooperation and pointed the need to enhance integration in the field of tourism among the Turkic states.

Ataoğlu stated that the TRNC is ready to share its expertise and tourism potential with the member states and highlighted that this strategic meeting is not only important for tourism but also for historical and cultural ties among the Turkic states.

Minister Ataoğlu recalled the prolonged international isolation faced by TRNC, noting that the embargoes on direct flights adversly affected the Turkish Cypriot people in various areas such as sports, culture, arts, and tourism.

Ataoğlu indicated that the TRNC is a prominent tourism destination owing its history, nature, beaches, and rich cuisine, stating “However, due to imposed embargoes, we are operating well below our true tourism potential.”

Reiterating that the TRNC is an inseparable part of the Turkic World, Ataoğlu concluded his speech by saying; “The Turkish Cypriot people must not be left in isolation. This isolation not only harms us but also damages the unity and dignity of the Turkic World. We invite you all to visit the TRNC. It would be an honor to host you on this beautiful island.”