The Deputy Prime Ministry, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Environment is actively participating in the 28th EMITT Tourism Fair, held in Istanbul as part of its international tourism promotion and marketing strategy. The fair, which officially opened today with a grand ceremony, will continue until February 7, 2025.

The event is being attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu, along with MP and Cyprus Health Council President Ahmet Savaşan.

Global Representation at EMITT 2025

EMITT, organized by ICA Events, has brought together representatives from a wide range of countries and tourism sectors. Among the participating nations are Bulgaria, Japan, Azerbaijan, Northern Cyprus, Georgia, Egypt, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Seychelles, Cuba, Malta, Nepal, Iran, Italy, Venezuela, as well as Panama, attending for the first time, and Korea, returning after several years.

Additionally, international municipalities, tourism agencies, IT firms, and resort hotels are present, including representatives from Greece, Iran, China, Uzbekistan, Peru, the Maldives, Pakistan, India, England, Spain, and Russia.

This year, 666 invited tour operators from 78 countries, including the USA, Germany, England, Russia, France, South Africa, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, India, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, are participating in the fair, further expanding its global outreach.

Fikri Ataoğlu: “Northern Cyprus is a Rising Brand in Tourism”

In his opening speech, Deputy Prime Minister Fikri Ataoğlu emphasized the strategic importance of tourism for the TRNC, highlighting the sector’s role in economic development, cultural fusion, and historical preservation.

"It is a great honor for us to represent the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in this important event where international collaborations are forged, and the global tourism vision is shaped," said Ataoğlu.

Key points from his speech include:

• Sustainable Tourism Policies: TRNC is actively diversifying its tourism offerings, focusing on nature tourism, health tourism, cultural tourism, and gastronomy tourism to enhance visitor experiences.
• Historical and Cultural Promotion: The TRNC is showcasing its rich historical heritage in key regions such as Kyrenia, Famagusta, and Nicosia, promoting tourism beyond traditional sea and sand tourism.
• The ‘Ada-Cyprus’ Brand Initiative: The TRNC is making strides in the Turkish market with its Ada-Cyprus brand, aiming to boost awareness and attract more visitors.
• Collaborations with International Agencies: Ataoğlu praised the efforts of KITSAB and TÜRSAB, noting that a large delegation of travel agencies will soon visit Northern Cyprus to explore its tourism potential firsthand.
• Eco-Tourism and Green Tourism Initiatives: The TRNC is committed to sustainable tourism, implementing eco-tourism projects, environmentally friendly hotel practices, and initiatives to protect natural areas while supporting local producers through gastronomy tourism.

"Tourism is not just an economic driver but a force that brings societies closer, enhances cultural understanding, and fosters sustainable development. As the TRNC, we consider tourism a state policy and will continue to promote our country on the world stage with innovative and high-quality services," Ataoğlu added.

Strengthening Northern Cyprus’s Position in Global Tourism

With its modernized tourism policies, commitment to sustainability, and expanding international partnerships, the TRNC aims to solidify its position as a key Mediterranean tourism destination.

“We are very proud to be at EMITT 2025 and will continue our efforts to represent our country in the best possible way,” Ataoğlu concluded, expressing hope for new productive and long-term collaborations through the fair.