Ozturk: Draft Law On Karpaz Land Allocation Will Drive Development, No Retreat Planned

Yasemin Ozturk, a National Unity Party (UBP) member and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Legal, Political Affairs and Foreign Relations, said the draft law had passed through committee by majority vote and also received unanimous approval in parliament at an earlier stage. She noted that the project had previously been supported by the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) as well.

Ozturk described the legislation as a significant economic opportunity for the Karpaz region, saying it would contribute to regional development, increased employment, and overall economic revitalization. She emphasized that the initiative represents “a very important step” in this regard.

Addressing concerns raised in public debate, Ozturk stressed that environmental safeguards have been incorporated into the draft law. She stated that the land will be strictly limited to educational use, with explicit provisions included to that effect.

She also underlined that existing vegetation will be protected, adding that no harm will be done to forested areas and that afforestation efforts will be carried out as part of the project.

Responding to recent criticism and calls from the CTP for the bill to be withdrawn, Ozturk reaffirmed the government’s stance. “This law will benefit society, particularly the Karpaz region. Therefore, stepping back is not an option,” she said, adding that the third reading is expected to take place in parliament today.

Ozturk further noted that the project envisions the development of walking paths, sports facilities, and social amenities in the region, arguing that these additions would contribute to both social and economic development.