Turkish tourism players submit plan to PM in a bid for image revival

Sector players in the Travel Agencies Association of Turkey (TÜRSAB) asked for an extension to the tourism action plan previously announced by the government, according to sources close to the matter. 

“We call for the launch of a new image-reviving project with the world’s leading celebrities. New projects should also be prepared to publicize historic and touristic spots across the country,” they said, adding that Turks living abroad should also be invited to take their vacations in Turkey through letters.

The sector players also request the launch of a new promotional campaign to encourage people to visit Turkey. 

Sources say TÜRSAB head Başaran Ulusoy spoke to Yıldırım on the phone to stress the importance of reviving Turkey’s image abroad and launching a comprehensive action plan to recover losses, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing diplomatic crisis with Russia. 

Turkey announced an action plan in February to support the tourism sector, including a 255-million-Turkish-Lira grant and several mechanisms that will enable tourism firms to restructure their debts. Several additions were later made to the package, including the extension of a $6,000 fuel subsidy for each airplane carrying tourists to certain airports in Turkey until September.