Turkish Cyprus advances plans for Gazimagusa reopening

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is preparing to take new steps regarding the reopening of the partially accessible Gazimagusa, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoglu.

In an interview with Anadolu Agency marking the fourth anniversary of the initial reopening of Gazimagusa, Ataoglu stated that during his recent visit to Türkiye, he met with Türkiye’s Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Murat Kurum to discuss upcoming actions.

“During my visit to Türkiye, I met with Minister Kurum to discuss new steps concerning Varosha. I suggested we visit the area together during his next visit to the TRNC. After seeing the progress firsthand, we will determine the next steps and implement them one by one,” Ataoglu said.

Ongoing developments for Gazimagusa, future plans

Gazimagusa, also known as Famagusta, is a town in Turkish Cyprus. In October 2020, a previously closed-off area of the town was partially reopened to the public. Ataoglu noted that the region, which has welcomed more than 2 million visitors since its reopening, has been a major draw for tourists and contributed significantly to the economy of both Gazimagusa and the TRNC.

“The initial reopening of Gazimagusa was made possible with the support of our motherland Türkiye, and we are grateful to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for this. Magusa is no longer a closed area, as it is now open to visitors during certain hours,” Ataoglu said.

He also emphasized that Magusa is under the full sovereignty of the TRNC and that they are prepared to take further steps, with Türkiye’s cooperation, to increase its contribution to the national economy.

Gazimagusa reopening timeline

The reopening process for Magusa began in June 2019 when the TRNC’s Cabinet decided to open the area and conduct a scientific inventory with the help of experts. On Oct. 8, 2020, the public was granted access to part of Democracy Avenue and the beachfront in Gazimagusa.

In a subsequent phase of the reopening on July 12, 2021, another section of the area was declassified from its military status, bringing 3.5% of Magusa under civilian control.

Despite opposition from the Greek Cypriot administration in Greek Cyprus, which has consistently rejected the reopening of Gazimagusa, TRNC authorities have maintained their position, asserting their sovereign control over the area.

Ataoglu reiterated that Greek Cypriots and third-country nationals with property in Magusa are encouraged to apply to the Immovable Property Commission (IPC) to resolve any property disputes.