Green Light from Tel Aviv to direct flights to the TRNC
Turkish Cypriot daily VATAN newspaper (18.02.07) reports under the above title and says: Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, gave important signals as regards the starting of direct flights from Tel-Aviv to the TRNC. Olmert, for direct flights to the TRNC which is a favourite place for Israeli tourists, pointed out the EL-AL which was privatized.
During Olmert´s meeting with the Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan and the Foreign Minister Gul, direct flights to the TRNC was on the agenda as well.
Erdogan and Gul raised this issue in the context of steps towards removing of isolations on the TRNC and, following this request, Olmert said that something could be done on this.
Pointing out the EL AL which was privatized recently (Olmert) said: You know we have recently privatized the EL-AL. They are a trading company now. You know we have opened up the path before the businessmen and we will continue to do so. We do not meddle in their affairs. We do not talk to them but you can go and talk to them. Olmert went on and added: Go and talk to them, we will not be in your way.
As for the TRNC´s request to open a trade or tourism office in Tel Aviv, Olmert said: I have received your request, I will look into it and I will reply as soon as possible. It became known that Mr Olmert will evaluate this request from the point of common undertakings that exist between Israel and the EU.
Well done, and thank you Greek Cyprus