Akpınar: Maritime Security Must Become Permanent State Policy

In a written statement, he said the disaster on the Kyrenia-Taşucu route should serve as a warning, adding: “We no longer have the right to rely on luck to the same extent.”

Akpınar said North Cyprus has hundreds of kilometres of coastline, but argued that society does not have sufficient knowledge of the structure of the seabed, currents and meteorological conditions, marine biodiversity, risks in maritime transport and search and rescue capabilities.

‘Detailed Bathymetric Maps Should Be Prepared’

Akpınar proposed preparing detailed bathymetric maps covering the coast and maritime jurisdiction areas of North Cyprus and making them publicly accessible.

He also called for a permanent response system consisting of a marine ambulance, rapid-response and search and rescue vessels, as well as unmanned aerial and maritime vehicles.

Akpınar urged the establishment of joint capacity with Turkey for sonar, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and robotic systems that can be used in deep-sea searches.

He also proposed digitally and independently monitoring port inspections, passenger manifests, vessel seaworthiness and crew training, while expanding education on swimming, first aid, maritime safety and marine ecology starting from schools.

‘North Cyprus Centre for Marine Research and Security Should Be Established’

Akpınar called for the establishment of a “North Cyprus Centre for Marine Research and Security” with contributions from universities.

He also said fisheries, water sports, environmental protection and marine tourism should be addressed under a joint “Blue Homeland and Marine Life Strategy”.

“Being an island country should not simply mean being surrounded by the sea. Being an island country means knowing the sea, respecting it, making conscious use of the opportunities it offers and being prepared at all times for its dangers,” Akpınar said.

He said the suffering caused by the disaster should be transformed into the beginning of a new public awareness about society’s relationship with the sea.

Akpınar stressed that society should develop the capacity to understand and protect its seas and, when necessary, to rescue its people.