TEKNOFEST, the world’s largest aviation, space and technology festival, held in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), has become a focal point not only for technology enthusiasts but also for political circles. The festival, which took place from 1 to 4 May at the old Ercan Airport in Nicosia, received significant coverage in the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus (GCASC) media.
President Erdoğan’s Visit Expected
Reports in the Greek media stated that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is expected to attend TEKNOFEST on 3 May. The visit was portrayed not only as a message of support to the TRNC but also as a “regional show of power that extends beyond the Cyprus issue.”
Greek Press Emphasises “Show of Power”
Leading Greek media outlets such as Omega TV and Kathimerini described TEKNOFEST as a “regional show of power by the Turkish side.” The reports highlighted the SOLOTÜRK aerobatic displays and the showcasing of Turkish defence industry products such as the Bayraktar TB2 and ANKA III. Special attention was drawn to the flights conducted by Turkish warplanes within the Nicosia FIR, which were interpreted as “airspace violations.”
Emphasis on the Turkic World Widely Covered in Greek Press
Publications such as Simeri and OffsiteNews noted that the meeting of the Council of Elders of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) was also held in the TRNC. The remarks made by the Minister of Industry and Technology, Mehmet Fatih Kacır, during the opening ceremony of TEKNOFEST—particularly his statement, “This is the Century of Türkiye”—were seen as an indication of Türkiye’s regional vision.
New Presidential Complex and Opening Events in the Spotlight
The new TRNC Presidential Complex, set to be inaugurated on 3 May with the participation of President Erdoğan, also drew the attention of the Greek media. Newspapers such as Philenews and Politis highlighted the technical features of the complex and the symbolic significance of the opening ceremony. They also referred to the remarks made in Ankara by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz and TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel.
Erdoğan’s Messages Closely Monitored
News outlets like CYtoday and Typos featured President Erdoğan’s statements made upon his return from Italy, underlining his message that the TRNC’s position within the Turkic world would be strengthened and that Türkiye would continue to support it.
TEKNOFEST in TRNC Showcases Not Just Technology, But Also Diplomacy
TEKNOFEST TRNC, which has made waves internationally, not only highlights advancements in defence and technology but also reinforces the aim of increasing the international visibility of Turkish Cypriots. Commentators note that the festival has become a platform that strengthens Türkiye’s diplomatic and strategic presence in the region.
