South Cyprus Tourism Undersecretary Addresses TUI’s Decision to Stop TRNC Visits
Greek Cypriot Tourism Undersecretary Kostas Kumis addressed the decision by international tourism company TUI to cease daily visits to the TRNC, as reported by Alithia and other newspapers via the Cyprus News Agency KİPE.
Kumis clarified that the Undersecretariat of Tourism focuses on promoting the country as a destination without exerting pressure on any entity. When questioned about a potential agreement or pressure on TUI to halt visits to the TRNC, Kumis explained that their efforts are part of broader promotional campaigns, which exclude TRNC regions.
Kumis emphasized that the Undersecretariat’s policy remains unchanged, and they do not collaborate with travel agencies offering accommodations in the TRNC. He refrained from commenting on specific tourism organizations like TUI.
Regarding tourists entering the TRNC from Greek Cypriot ports and airports, Kumis linked this to the Green Line Regulation, enabling EU citizens to cross from Southern Cyprus to the North.
The Greek Cypriot Hoteliers Association PASIKSE’s Famagusta region praised TUI’s decision as a “positive step” in redirecting visitors away from the TRNC. President Panayiotis Konstantinu highlighted ongoing concerns about tourists heading north and viewed TUI’s decision as crucial in curbing this trend, particularly affecting the Larnaca and Famagusta areas.
Politis newspaper reported mixed reactions, suggesting the government’s strategy might backfire. Sources indicated that about 10 to 15 organized visits occur daily, often involving brief tours or stays with minimal spending. The newspaper claimed that government assertions about TUI not funding TRNC visits lacked substance and were viewed as ineffectual.
