Responding to media reports that Indian tourist are cancelling their plan to travel Turkey due to civil unrest, Burak AkÇapar, Turkish Ambassador to India, has said that Turkey is a safe and an emerging tourist destination for Indians.
Statement by the Turkish Ambassador Burak AkÇapar:
Turkey is fast rising as a major destination for Indian tourists. I am honored and happy with the outpouring of curiosity, goodwill and interest shown by Indian friends towards Turkey. Every day I hear very positive impressions from Indians who have been to Turkey including those who just came back. Turkish Airlines together with Air India continue to cater to the travelers with very high occupancy ratios. I am also aware that there have been questions recently about the protests in Turkey and I understand that. Tourism is about relaxing and enjoying and every one of us want to be sure.
Let me say it very clearly: As an Istanbulite myself, I see no reason for Indian travelers to cancel or postpone their plans to visit Turkey. Turkey welcomes you. You have million reasons to go.
The travelers can learn whether there are ongoing localized protests and their places from their hotels in Turkey.
I am also asked about the nature of the protests and how they compare to others around the world. The protests in Turkey represent a completely different phenomenon than the social unrest in some European countries due to economic crisis. Turkish economy is among the best performers in the world. The protests are also different from the upheaval in some West Asian countries that demand regime change. Turkey is already an established multi-party parliamentary democracy. We are at a stage that many others in our broad neighborhood are aspiring to reach.
The protests in Turkey have begun due to environmentalist concerns in downtown Istanbul. The police have taken measures to avoid the voice and demands of the honest protestors being hijacked. After a brief period the police have been able to recalibrate their responses while maintaining law and order. The environmental sensitivity should be seen as evidence of the maturity of Turkish civic culture. The demands of the protesters are being addressed through established channels of communication and dialogue. The rest is politics and will be addressed through Turkey’s democratic process.
Turkey welcomes 20% more Indian tourists every year and offers an experience in a unique spectrum ranging from unmatched historical, spiritual, artistic, culinary heritage and to a lively night life. I would like you to know that Turkey appeals to all ages and tastes. Please note also that we have significantly simplified visa procedures recently including by introducing e-visa for qualified applicants.
My Embassy in Delhi, Consulate General in Mumbai, Honorary Consuls in Chennai and Kolkata and Culture and Tourism Counselor will be happy to answer any questions you might have including through email, facebook or twitter.
I wish you all a relaxing, peaceful and enjoyable vacation in Turkey.
