Northern Cyprus deputy PM: People are at the heart of Turkic world's concept of city

The human being is at the heart of the Turkic world's concept of city.

Report informs that Fikri Ataoğlu, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, culture, youth and environment of Northern Cyprus, said this at the High-Level Urban Dialogue of the Organization of Turkic States held as part of WUF13.

He thanked Azerbaijan for hosting such an important event:

"Today, we are talking here about a common future, cultural heritage, sustainable development and a people-centered concept of city. Cities are no longer merely areas where people live, but also centers of the economy, culture, tourism, technology and social life. At the same time, they are places that reflect societies" identity and vision for the future.

"At the heart of the Turkic world's concept of city is the human being. Our culture is one that places people at the center, preserves neighborhood culture, neighborliness, historical texture and the environment."

He added that although Northern Cyprus has limited natural resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, it is a country with rich historical and cultural heritage:

"Despite the isolation and various restrictions it has faced in the international arena for years, the Turkish Cypriot people are taking decisive steps toward economic development, increasing prosperity and improving quality of life."