During a grand opening ceremony for the new Rixos Tersane Istanbul hotel on Sunday, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared Istanbul’s prominence as a global tourism powerhouse. He emphasized the city’s historical significance, its rich cultural heritage, and its strategic location as key drivers attracting millions of visitors each year. He highlighted Istanbul’s ability to blend its ancient past with modern infrastructure, creating a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly bridges the East and West.
Erdoğan praised the city’s role as a cultural hub, attracting both tourists and international gatherings. He pointed to events like the NATO Summit, the U.N. Humanitarian Summit, and the 13th Islamic Summit, showcasing Istanbul’s capacity to host major international events. These events not only elevated Istanbul’s global standing but also highlighted the city’s ability to provide top-notch facilities and services.
Erdoğan reiterated his administration’s commitment to further bolstering Istanbul’s tourism appeal, emphasizing support for tourism-related projects and the preservation of its historical sites. This commitment signifies the Turkish government’s dedication to strengthening Istanbul’s position as a premier tourism hub.
Beyond Istanbul, Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s immense tourism potential, emphasizing the country’s diverse offerings that cater to a wide range of interests. From historical sites and religious landmarks to vibrant cultural traditions, stunning natural landscapes, wellness retreats, and culinary delights, Turkey presents a multitude of opportunities for tourists. He advocated for expanding tourism activities throughout the year, going beyond traditional coastal attractions to encompass the full spectrum of experiences Turkey has to offer.
Erdoğan also acknowledged the pivotal role of modern infrastructure in boosting Turkey’s tourism sector. He noted that the development of state-of-the-art airports and a vast network of highways has significantly improved accessibility, allowing travelers to easily explore the country’s diverse attractions. These advancements have facilitated smoother travel for international visitors and unlocked new destinations within Turkey.
The president also underscored the impact of enhanced security measures and the successful efforts to eliminate terrorism in the southeastern and eastern regions of Turkey. These initiatives have transformed these regions into safer and more appealing destinations for travelers, enabling them to explore their unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With reduced security concerns, tourists can now experience the rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes of these regions.
During the ceremony, Turkey’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, highlighted Istanbul’s continuous evolution as a hub of cultural and tourism activities. He noted that the city, a significant pillar of Turkish-Islamic civilization, is constantly enriched with new cultural and tourism offerings. Ersoy proudly shared that Istanbul achieved a remarkable milestone by welcoming over 10 million visitors in just the first seven months of the year, reaffirming its global appeal as a premier travel destination.
Ersoy also stressed the importance of investing in the arts and cultural sectors to further enhance Istanbul’s tourism landscape. He elaborated on the government’s commitment to preserving and revitalizing the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage through ongoing restoration projects. These efforts aim to protect Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and historical sites, ensuring they continue to captivate and educate both residents and visitors alike, thereby maintaining the city’s status as a vibrant cultural center.
Turkey’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, emphasized the strategic importance of integrating modern infrastructure with cultural development to create a seamless experience for tourists. He highlighted that enhancing connectivity and accessibility is crucial to supporting Istanbul’s growth as a leading tourist destination, ensuring that visitors can easily explore its numerous attractions.
Fettah Tamince, the Chairman of Rixos Hotels, shared his vision for Rixos Tersane Istanbul, describing it as a game-changer in the city’s hospitality scene. He expressed his confidence that the new establishment would set a new standard for city hotel management, blending luxury with cultural authenticity. Tamince emphasized that Rixos Tersane Istanbul would not only provide exceptional service and accommodations but also become an integral part of the city’s cultural tapestry, contributing to the lasting memory of Istanbul’s ever-evolving story.
