President of the TRNC addresses the nation on the anniversary of the earthquake in Turkey

February 6 marks a year since a powerful earthquake struck southern Turkey, claiming the lives of over 50,000 people. Among the victims were 49 citizens of the TRNC. On the anniversary of the tragedy, the President of the country, Ersin Tatar, addressed the residents of Northern Cyprus.

"The deep wounds inflicted by the catastrophe of the century, which burned our hearts, have still not healed. As a state, we strive to do everything possible to heal the wounds of this tragedy, which claimed the lives of over 50,000 citizens in Turkey and 49 citizens of our country, including our Angel Champions, and to preserve their names in memory," wrote the head of Northern Cyprus.

Ersin Tatar also emphasized that the authorities of the country will insist that justice prevails. Special attention will be paid to the judicial process regarding the collapse of the Isias hotel in Adiyaman, where 72 people died as a result of the earthquake on February 6. Among the victims were 35 athletes and teachers from among the Turkish Cypriots.

"We fully believe in and trust the Turkish justice system on this matter," emphasized Ersin Tatar.

It is worth reminding that the victims of the devastating earthquake on February 6, 2023, numbered over 50,000 people. Among the deceased were members of the children's volleyball team from Famagusta and their parents – a total of 35 people. The Council of Ministers of the TRNC made a historic decision – the entire team was recognized as martyrs. They were called Angel Champions.

The "Survival Association of Angel Champions" has been established in the country. Streets in the cities of the TRNC were named in honor of the deceased, an indoor sports hall is being built at the Fazıl Küçük stadium complex in memory of the deceased volleyball players and coaches, and construction of mausoleums for the Angel Champions has begun in six villages of the TRNC.

"On the anniversary of this painful day, I remember with mercy and sorrow our 49 citizens who died in Turkey. I wish patience to the grieving families and the Turkish people," concluded the leader of the TRNC.