Date Added: 02 September 2024

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel emphasized the importance of entering the future with a strong economy, calling on all Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to mobilize in response to ongoing efforts by the Greek Cypriot administration to undermine the development of key sectors in the country.

In a statement shared on his social media account, Prime Minister Üstel highlighted the government’s stable efforts towards economic growth, noting that they avoid making unrealistic promises that the country’s resources cannot support.

He stated, “We are not developing rhetoric that is impossible to achieve or promises that the country cannot fulfil. We do not make empty promises to anyone.”

Reflecting on his remarks at the General Assembly of the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce, Üstel pointed out the significant progress made by his administration in the last two years.

“During our two-year term, we have undertaken both legal and structural reforms in all areas of the country that have been neglected for years, and we have made substantial progress,” he said.

“We are moving forward towards 2027 with stability, and the future awaits us. We are completing our roads, initiating and finishing our hospitals, and advancing our energy infrastructure by working on a cable-based electricity project from Türkiye and strengthening the Turkish Cypriot Electricity Authority (KIB-TEK),” Üstel said.

The prime minister also acknowledged the demands from the business community, stating that the government is listening and supporting efforts to increase private sector investments and create new employment opportunities.

He emphasized ongoing initiatives to align the country’s workforce and economy with these goals.

Highlighting the importance of the e-government system, Üstel assured that all ministries will address their shortcomings and integrate into the system.

He also mentioned efforts to promote technological innovations in agriculture, improve food security, and develop new production policies aligned with market demands.

Additionally, Üstel outlined policies aimed at integrating the construction and real estate sectors with tourism and higher education.

However, he warned of external threats, stating, “There are those who are working to prevent this progress. The Greek Cypriot administration is doing everything it can to destroy all our developing sectors.”

In response, Üstel called for collective action: “I call on everyone to mobilize. As a state, we are taking the necessary precautions. We stand behind our investors, our titles, and our tourism sector. But government action alone is not enough; all Civil Society Organizations must also take action.”