Mehmet Şimşek: Turkey Will Continue to Support Northern Cyprus's Economic Development

Highlighting the unjust international isolation of Northern Cyprus, Şimşek emphasised that Turkey’s support for the island’s long-term prosperity remains steadfast.

Şimşek noted that his participation in the event followed recent discussions with President Ersin Tatar at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where they addressed global challenges and potential strategies for cooperation. He reiterated that Turkey would stand by the TRNC amid international uncertainties and reiterated Turkey’s crucial role in the Turkish Cypriot community’s ongoing struggle for existence.

Reflecting on global economic conditions, Şimşek warned that today’s challenges mirror the pre-World War II era, with rising protectionism, growing debt, climate change, and persistent geopolitical tensions. He stressed that the rules of the liberal international order were increasingly being questioned and that the world was experiencing an unprecedented period of economic uncertainty.

“Turkey Possesses Vast Potential Despite Global Headwinds”

Şimşek stated that Turkey had been relatively resilient against global protectionist trends thanks to its strong service sector revenues. He underscored that, due to its development projects, Turkey is poised to become a critical bridge in global trade. Despite the adverse global environment, he said Turkey still offers significant opportunities and potential.

He called for the implementation of sound, internationally aligned, and technology-driven policies focused on digitalisation to weather the global storm.

“The Turkish Cypriot People's Choices Are Key to Lasting Prosperity”

Şimşek drew attention to the continued unjust isolation imposed on the TRNC and underlined that Northern Cyprus has the potential to become a regional hub for service exports and local production. With access to Turkey’s vast consumer market, the island could significantly boost its economic output. He asserted that Turkey’s support for establishing permanent prosperity in Northern Cyprus is unequivocal but stressed that the decisions and direction chosen by the Turkish Cypriot people will be decisive.

“TRNC's High-Value Service Sector Has Strong Foundations and Growth Potential”

Şimşek highlighted the TRNC’s well-established high-value service sectors, particularly in education and tourism, and said further expansion is possible in areas such as fintech and health tourism. He also advocated for the promotion of locally produced foods to tourists to increase added value.

Concluding his speech, Şimşek pointed to the island’s suitability for fruit and vegetable production and encouraged a multidimensional approach to capitalising on the presence of students and tourists. He suggested that with the right policies, these groups could contribute more meaningfully to the local economy.