ANKARA
Istanbul's Yenikapi Cruise Port Project will become operational soon, Turkey's transport and infrastructure minister said on Tuesday.
"Istanbul will be the starting and finishing points in cruise tourism after the port becomes operational," Cahit Turhan told Anadolu Agency.
Turhan did not give further details about the exact date of the launch but said the tender for the project will be completed next year.
Stating that the cruise tourism constitutes 2% of world's total tourism, he said: "Cruise tourism in Turkey grew 23% on average annually from 2003 to 2009".
Turkey aimed at 3-million cruise passenger capacity, Turhan noted.
* Writing by Tuba Sahin
Anadolu Agency website contains only a portion of the news stories offered to subscribers in the AA News Broadcasting System (HAS), and in summarized form. Please contact us for subscription options.
Zelenskyy says Russia’s use of new ballistic missile ‘more proof’ Moscow does not want peace
Australia proposes social media ban for those under 16
ICC arrest warrants for Israel’s Netanyahu, Gallant draw mixed reactions from European nations
ICC warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant 'crucial' for accountability: Maldives
India’s top court suggests trial in jail for Kashmiri leader
