Economy stronger than before thanks to infrastructure investments: Turkish Cyprus President

President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Ersin Tatar stated that the TRNC economy is now stronger and more developed compared to the past.

“With infrastructure investments and all available capabilities, TRNC has become a valuable entity,” he said.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), Tatar highlighted the rapid transformation of the TRNC economy and the growing regional importance of the island.

‘Turkish Cyprus becomes value with all capabilities’

Tatar emphasized that thousands of companies and manufacturers now operate in the TRNC. “The economy of Northern Cyprus is stronger and more developed than before,” he said.

“With infrastructure investments and all available capabilities, the TRNC has now become a value. It continues on its path as a brand of education, health, and tourism,” he added.

He noted the growing visibility of the TRNC on the global stage, stating, “The TRNC is present under its flag in organizations like the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Organization of Turkic States. If we have achieved this, I believe international recognition will eventually follow.”

Strategic location, investment opportunities

Tatar praised the location and significance of Antalya, calling it a “central hub,” close to both the Middle East and Europe. “Antalya is only 25 minutes by air from the TRNC. With its infrastructure, airport, and position, Antalya is a wealth for Türkiye,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan for organizing ADF and noted this was his fourth time participating.

Turkish Cyprus and international cooperation

Tatar underscored efforts for international recognition, with growing trade relations and students from 144 countries studying at TRNC universities.

He recalled the TRNC’s entry into the Organization of Turkic States in 2022 with President Erdogan’s support.

Responding to the recent opening of embassies by some Turkic states in Southern Cyprus, Tatar commented, “It’s a sensitive matter. These are independent states and make decisions based on their national interests. We need to understand that they also face significant needs and pressures.”

Tatar meets with Aliyev and Fidan

On the sidelines of ADF, Tatar held bilateral talks with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. He thanked Aliyev for the solidarity shown toward the TRNC and referenced Aliyev’s supportive remarks at a recent forum hosted by ADA University.

Aliyev recently emphasized that Azerbaijan would always stand by TRNC, saying, “We are always with our brothers… Our brothers in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus can rest assured that we will always support the recognition of their country as an independent state by the international community.”

In addition, Tatar met with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during the forum to discuss bilateral relations and strategic cooperation.