The 1st TRNC Presidential Earthquake Conference has begun, focusing on the evaluation of past and potential future earthquakes in Cyprus. The conference aims to address the steps needed to reduce earthquake risks in the TRNC.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Ersin Tatar highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen buildings and ensure the safety of future generations. Tatar also remarked, “The pain of our Champion Angels remains in our hearts, and we continue our work moving forward.”
The conference, hosted at Near East University, will run for two days, with sessions covering earthquake risk management, seismic monitoring, structural safety, urban planning, and search and rescue operations.
Organized by the Presidential Earthquake Committee, the conference brought together President Ersin Tatar, Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu, President of the Keeping the Champion Angels Alive Association Ruşen Karakaya, academics and experts from Türkiye and the TRNC, university representatives, civil society organizations, search and rescue teams, as well as military and police officials.
In his speech, Prof. Dr. Cavit Atalar, Chairman of the Presidential Earthquake Committee, emphasized that the TRNC is an earthquake-prone region, and buildings must be designed accordingly.
Ruşen Yücesoylu Karakaya, President of the Keep the Champion Angels Alive Association, stressed the importance of honoring the memory of those lost in the February 6 tragedy and working to prevent future disasters.
Cafer Gürcafer, President of the Cyprus Turkish Construction Contractors Union, highlighted the need for scientific guidance and oversight in construction.
Minister Nazım Çavuşoğlu addressed the seriousness of earthquake safety, noting that prefabricated classrooms were introduced for children’s safety despite criticism, and schools that don’t meet safety standards are being renovated.
President Ersin Tatar pointed out that a committee had been formed before the February 6 earthquake to address preparedness. He reaffirmed the island’s earthquake risk and the importance of examining buildings and their foundations in light of global developments.
Tatar added that efforts to strengthen structures and collaborate between the north and south of the island continue for the safety of future generations.
The two-day conference will continue with six sessions focusing on earthquake risk management, seismic monitoring, structural safety, urban planning, and search and rescue operations.
Throughout the conference, the TRNC Civil Defence Organization, the Turkish Red Crescent of Northern Cyprus, and other relevant institutions are providing information at stands set up around the Near East University Atatürk Cultural Center.