The Minister of Public Works and Transportation Erhan Arıklı has said that plans to revive ferry services between Gaziamağusa ( Famagusta )and the Syrian port city of Latakia were in the works.
Arıklı provided a brief assessment of the meeting held with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, emphasizing its significance for bilateral relations and regional issues.
Arıklı noted that he raised specific proposals during the discussions.
“I explored the possibility of reviving maritime routes between Famagusta and Latakia, particularly given the new administration in Syria and its efforts to strengthen ties with Türkiye. Additionally, I questioned whether direct flights between Ercan and Latakia could eventually be initiated,” he said.
Recalling historical context, Arıklı noted that past Famagusta-Latakia ferry services were suspended following complaints from Greek Cypriot authorities to the European Union. However, the EU’s 2008 response clarified that the three ports in Northern Cyprus were not under embargo, establishing an important precedent. “This is a key opportunity to enhance the international use of Famagusta Port, starting with Latakia connections,” he explained.
( Source: BRT News)
