Ataoğlu: Festival in Azerbaijan to Promote the TRNC

Speaking following a series of meetings in Turkey and with the Organization of Turkic States, Ataoğlu said that the TRNC remains committed to strengthening its stance in the areas of environment, tourism, and culture. According to a statement from his ministry, Ataoğlu held talks with Turkish Environment Minister Murat Kurum, resulting in pledges of environmental infrastructure support including 1,200 waste containers, recycling trucks, compost machines, and garbage collection vehicles. Wastewater and sewerage projects will also be launched in İskele, Lefke, and Geçitkale, and a mobile laboratory for sea water analysis will be delivered in August.

"We Share Common Roots—Let’s Strengthen Brotherhood Through Tourism"

Highlighting the importance of environmental cooperation with Turkey, Ataoğlu stated: “Every investment in the environment is an investment in our people and future. As two peoples who share the same roots and cultural ties, we are determined to strengthen this bond through tourism and culture.”

He revealed that, as part of efforts to boost tourism ties, the TRNC and Azerbaijan would host a festival featuring cultural events, artistic performances, and tourism presentations: “Our aim is to introduce our heritage and attractions to wider audiences and to deepen the fraternal ties between our peoples.”

"A New Era in Tourism Under the 'Island Cyprus' Brand"

Ataoğlu also referenced the launch of the “Island Cyprus” brand, part of a promotional campaign developed in partnership with Turkey. He said budget-friendly cultural tours from Anatolia to the TRNC had begun through cooperation with AJet, a move intended to increase accessibility and boost local economic development.

"The Turkic World Must Not Leave the TRNC Isolated"

Reflecting on discussions with Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States, Ataoğlu called for stronger support for the TRNC. He said that international embargoes, especially bans on direct flights, had severely hindered the cultural, artistic, sporting, and tourism development of the Turkish Cypriot people.

“The TRNC is a natural part of the Turkic World and should not be left in isolation,” Ataoğlu said. “This isolation damages not only us but also the unity and dignity of the Turkic World as a whole.”

He concluded with a call to action: “Let us invest together in our environment, culture, and brotherhood. These investments will shape the future of our children. The TRNC will continue its efforts to build stronger ties with the Turkic World.”