An important development has occurred in the fiber optic project aimed at strengthening the digital infrastructure in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The supplementary protocol prepared within the framework of cooperation with the Republic of Turkey was approved by the Committee on Law, Political Affairs, Foreign Relations and Defense of the Parliament with a majority vote and was forwarded to the General Assembly. Prime Minister Ünal Üstel emphasized that the project will be implemented during this process.
Attending the committee meeting were UBP Committee Chair Yasemi Öztürk, Public Works and Transport Minister Erhan Arıklı, and representatives from various institutions. The meeting addressed changes to be made in the fiber optic cooperation protocol signed between Turkey and TRNC on September 24, 2025. The committee unanimously approved that the protocol be included in the General Assembly’s agenda.
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel stated that the fiber optic infrastructure will reach all villages and homes. He indicated that the project would be partially funded by Turkey and therefore, no fees would be imposed on citizens. He also mentioned that the protocol has been sent to the Constitutional Court and will be re-signed with Turkey after the necessary adjustments.
Üstel claimed that the CTP has shown resistance to the project in the committee, alleging that the relevant party was attempting to create various obstacles. He expressed gratitude to UBP members, including Committee Chair Yasemi Öztürk, and legislators Sadık Gardiyanoğlu and Alişan Şan for their support for the project.
Üstel reiterated, “No matter what they say, this project will be realized,” reaffirming his determination to bring the fiber optic project to the country. He highlighted that the project would significantly contribute to TRNC’s digitalization goals and enhance tourism and foreign investments.
With the strengthening of the digital infrastructure, Üstel noted that TRNC will get closer to its goal of becoming a “digital island,” stressing not only the importance of securing data but also the other benefits of high-speed internet. The Prime Minister stated that the UBP will continue its actions, saying, “We will continue on our path with determination.”
Source: www.diyaloggazetesi.com
