The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is hosting the 4th Ecotourism Experts Group Meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Kyrenia. The event, held at the Girne Acapulco Hotel, is organized in collaboration with the TRNC Ministry of Tourism, Turkey’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, and the TRNC Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representatives from ECO member and observer countries have gathered to discuss sustainable tourism practices and enhance regional collaboration.

Two-Day Event Highlights

The meeting began with a moment of silence and the national anthem, followed by opening speeches from:

• Ergül Tazeoğlu, Deputy Director, General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks, Turkey.
• Mine Emiroğlu, Director of Tourism Promotion and Marketing, TRNC Ministry of Tourism.
• Hasan Tufan, ECO Tourism Directorate-Program Officer.

The event features presentations on ecotourism practices from participating countries, discussions on sustainable tourism strategies, and a planned field visit to TRNC’s key eco-tourism sites.

Statements from Key Officials

Ergül Tazeoğlu (Turkey): Increasing Regional Ecotourism Potential

Representing Turkey, Ergül Tazeoğlu emphasized the importance of ECO countries increasing their share in the global ecotourism market. “These meetings are a valuable opportunity to share knowledge, learn from one another, and develop strategies to grow ecotourism sustainably,” he stated.

Tazeoğlu noted Turkey’s success in managing 671 protected areas, with ecotourism being a significant component of its conservation plans. He praised TRNC’s hosting of the event, calling it “a vital platform to advance shared goals.”

Mine Emiroğlu (TRNC): TRNC’s Unique Eco-Tourism Appeal

Mine Emiroğlu, representing the TRNC Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the country’s rich ecotourism potential, including its Mediterranean climate, unique biodiversity, and cultural heritage. She identified key attractions such as:

• Beşparmak Mountains and Karpaz Peninsula, known for their pristine landscapes.
• Lefke, famous for organic farming and citrus groves.
• Traditional Cypriot experiences, such as local festivals, olive harvesting, and village accommodations.

“Eco and agro tourism in the TRNC provide visitors with authentic, nature-based experiences while supporting local economies and preserving cultural traditions,” Emiroğlu said.

Hasan Tufan (ECO): Sustainable Tourism as a Pillar of Development

Hasan Tufan, ECO Tourism Directorate-Program Officer, outlined the organization’s commitment to sustainable tourism under its Vision 2025 roadmap. He highlighted initiatives like the ECO Tourism Capitals program and announced the launch of an ECO Tourism website, which will serve as a platform for showcasing member countries' attractions and collaborative tourism efforts.

“Ecotourism serves as a vital link between environmental preservation and economic prosperity,” Tufan stated, urging participants to engage in knowledge-sharing and innovative practices to achieve their shared goals.

TRNC’s Leadership in Ecotourism

The TRNC has been an observer member of the ECO since 2012 and has actively contributed to its initiatives, including past workshops on tourism, water management, and pollution control. This meeting reaffirms TRNC’s position as a growing hub for eco and agro tourism in the region.

Emiroğlu emphasized the importance of leveraging TRNC’s unique natural and cultural assets to attract environmentally conscious tourists. “By investing in education, infrastructure, and international promotion, the TRNC can position itself as a leading destination for sustainable tourism,” she said.

A Platform for Collaboration

The two-day event aims to foster partnerships, exchange ideas, and develop a robust framework for sustainable ecotourism. As part of the program, participants will visit TRNC’s eco-tourism hotspots to experience firsthand the natural beauty and cultural richness the country has to offer.

This initiative marks another step in the TRNC’s ongoing efforts to enhance its visibility in global tourism markets while preserving its natural and cultural heritage for future generations.