The Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus has signed a new agreement with TUI, a major tour operator, which aims to prevent tourists traveling from Europe to Southern Cyprus from crossing into Northern Cyprus.

In a statement released by TUI, Germany’s leading tour operator, it was announced that, in line with the agreement reached with the Greek Cypriot Administration, all tours to Northern Cyprus will be suspended until August 31, 2024.

TERRIBLE

Fikri Ataoglu, Minister of Tourism, in TRNC criticized South Cyprus efforts to restrict European tourists from entering Northern Cyprus until August 31. Ataoglu emphasized that the agreement with TUI contradicts the European Union’s (EU) principle of free movement.

Ataoglu expressed concerns that this decision would have negative economic and social impacts on Northern Cyprus and that limiting tourists’ freedom to explore the entire island is unjustifiable. He highlighted that the EU’s silence on this matter contradicts its fundamental principles and supports a unilateral stance on the island.

He further stated that depriving tourists of the opportunity to experience the entire island cannot be justified by EU laws or the essence of tourism, and that this situation will only increase the isolation of Turkish Cypriots and hinder efforts for a peaceful resolution.

Ataoglu noted that tourism is a sector that can strengthen ties between the two communities and contribute to the peace process. He argued that tourism should not be sacrificed to political agendas, as such barriers will only serve to deepen the island’s divisions.

Minister Ataoglu also described TUI’s decision to suspend tours to North Cyprus as politically motivated. He stressed that this move would have adverse effects on local guides and tourism sector employees, stating, “Tourism cannot be sacrificed to politics. This decision must be reversed as soon as possible.”

Ataoglu urged the EU and the UN to take a more active role in addressing South Cyprus actions that exacerbate the divide between the two communities. He called for an end to biased attitudes, emphasizing that the Turkish Cypriot people have fundamental human rights and freedoms.

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