LEFKOSA - Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Abdullatif Sener and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Economy and Tourism Minister Enver Ozturk signed Wednesday the "Economic Program and Agreement Protocol" in Lefkosa.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Sener said economic development of TRNC has been watched in envy in the world despite all difficulties, noting that this development was achieved by the help of economic cooperation established with Turkey.
Underscoring a heart-to-heart solidarity between Turkey and TRNC, Sener said "that`s why nature of Turkey-TRNC relations are different."
Stating that isolations have negative impact on TRNC`s development, Sener said no economies in the world would have survived if they had faced such pressures on TRNC.
Reminding that national income per capita of TRNC grew 68 percent from 2002 to 2006 and reached 11,800 USD, Sener said "now our goal is to keep this development permanent."
Criticising 259 million euro of EU fund to be granted to TRNC, Sener said Turkey gives 400 million USD every year to TRNC for its welfare and economic activities.
"EU should not be considered as a magic wand. EU`s financial aid is half of Turkey`s aid provided each year," he said.
Pointing out investments in tourism industry in TRNC, Sener said bed capacity at TRNC hotels will be 30,000 in 2009, which is now around 10,000.