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TUI, Europe’s largest tour operator, has announced that it will stop organizing day trips from the free areas of Cyprus to the occupied territories starting August 31. This decision has been welcomed by Panagiotis Konstantinou, President of the Pancyprian Association of Hoteliers (PASYXE) of Famagusta. He described it as a positive measure to prevent tourists from visiting the north, which could undermine the economic stability of the south.
Konstantinou commended TUI for its move, stating that the company’s actions are a significant step in addressing the long-standing issue of tourist leakage to the occupied areas. He emphasized that this decision helps prevent competition that affects tourism in the Republic of Cyprus.
Zorlu Töre, the “Speaker of the Parliament” in the occupied territories, accused Greek Cypriots of trying to collapse the economy
In contrast, Turkish Cypriot officials have strongly criticized TUI’s decision. “Prime Minister” Unal Ustell denounced the move as part of a broader strategy to limit tourism to the occupied territories, which he claims is an effort to damage the Turkish Cypriot economy. Ustell argued that such restrictions increase tensions and infringe on rights protected by international law, including freedom of movement.
Zorlu Töre, the “Speaker of the Parliament” in the occupied territories, accused Greek Cypriots of trying to collapse the economy of the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) through economic and social blockades. He urged the EU and the UN to address what he described as discriminatory practices by the Greek Cypriots.
On the other hand, Sami Ozoulou, a “deputy” from the TRNC, suggested that the policy of the Turkish Cypriot leader, Ersin Tatar, is isolating Turkish Cypriots further and worsening their international standing. He criticized Tatar’s approach, arguing that it makes the TRNC more isolated and plays into Greek Cypriot hands.
Orhan Toloun, “chairman” of the Turkish Cypriot Travel Agents Association (KITSAB), expressed concern that ending daily tours will negatively impact local businesses and the economy. He claimed that such restrictions amount to an economic embargo and are detrimental to the Turkish Cypriot tourism sector.
In the occupied area’s Arasta shopping district, shopkeepers are worried that TUI’s decision will force them to close their stores. They argue that the ban contravenes the rules of the European Economic Area (EEA) and will harm inter-community relations.
Additionally, Yeni Bakis reported that Turkish Cypriots might renovate tourist accommodations in Varosha, potentially as retaliation against the excursion ban. A businessman is reportedly interested in developing these properties, which could impact the tourism dynamics further.
Source: CNA
