Dr. Ünal Üstel, Prime Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), paid a visit to Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and university officials on Thursday, 2 July 2026 at 12:00 p.m. EMU’s current status, advancements in the higher education sector and university-government collaborations were addressed during the said meeting.
Present during the meeting were Famagusta District Governor Özden Keser, UBP Famagusta District Chair Nahit Öncü, EMU Board of Trustees (VYK) Members Özdinç Akdel, Dr. Eyüp Göksu and Anıl İmre, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, as well as EMU General Secretary Derviş Ekşici. Held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, the meeting centered on the University’s academic and physical development, efforts to enhance student life, and sustainability in higher education.
During the visit, the parties exchanged views on the sustainable development of universities, strengthening academic and physical infrastructure, improving the quality of student life, and promoting quality-driven growth in higher education. They also underscored the importance of the support provided to universities under the current economic conditions and discussed the contribution of its continued provision to the higher education system.
Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç Expressed His Gratitude to Prime Minister Üstel
The meeting highlighted the significance of the support and contributions provided to Eastern Mediterranean University by the Government of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and the University administration conveyed their appreciation to Prime Minister Dr. Ünal Üstel for this continued support. Particular emphasis was placed on the crucial role the Government has played in the University’s progress since the signing of the Financial Protocol between the TRNC Government and EMU in April 2024. Expressing his gratitude, Rector Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated: “The support of our Government and our State is of great value to us. EMU is the leading institution in our country’s higher education sector, and with this valuable support, it will continue to represent our country in the best possible way. I would therefore like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Prime Minister and, through him, to the Government and the State of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.”
Prime Minister Dr. Ünal Üstel stated that the Government fully recognizes the significance of EMU as one of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ most important institutions and reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its support for the University.
Held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, the meeting provided an opportunity for an exchange of views on potential joint initiatives in higher education and future collaboration opportunities.
Following the meeting at the Rector’s Office, the delegation was joined by EMU Board of Trustees President Şemi Bora for a lunch at EMU L’Apprenti Restaurant. During the visit, Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç also presented a commemorative gift to Prime Minister Üstel.