President Ersin Tatar is in the Turkish capital Ankara to attend the leaders’ summit of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) being held under the theme of disaster management and humanitarian assistance.

Tatar will also be holding bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit.

Speaking to reporters before departing from Ercan airport on Wednesday, President Ersin Tatar said that his efforts to overcome the international isolation and embargoes imposed on the Turkish Cypriot people will continue.

Tatar pointed out that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will be included in the summit as an observer with its official title, a development which he added was quite significant in terms of the Turkish Cypriot side’s new vision.

He added that during his bilateral meetings he will convey the TRNC’s readiness to take part in search and rescue efforts in disaster zones with all its experience and knowledge.

“Cooperation and collaboration with the Organisation of Turkic States in times of natural disasters is quite important,” Tatar said.

He also pointed out that he will be moving onto Hatay on Friday where he will be visiting the Türkiye Disaster Management Authority’s (AFAD) Coordination Centre as well as inspect teams from the Cyprus Turkish Security Forces who are currently taking part in relief efforts in İskenderun.

“I will also be visiting the “Champion Angels” container city before returning to the island on Friday night,” he said.