Üstel sets out case for North Cyprus fibre-optic project

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel has described a proposed fibre-optic infrastructure project as a strategic priority for North Cyprus, linking it to digital public services and cybersecurity.

In a statement issued by the Prime Ministry, Üstel said the project was more than an effort to improve internet speeds. He said it was intended to support the aim of making North Cyprus a digital island and provide a basis for expanding e-government services.

Üstel said data, information and cybersecurity should be regarded as elements of national security. He also argued that North Cyprus may already be behind schedule on the project and should not lose a further seven months.

The prime minister said the government had focused on projects it considers strategic and urgent, with some funded through domestic resources and others through financial cooperation protocols with Turkey. He said cooperation with Turkey on infrastructure investment would continue.

Üstel also said views had been sought while preparing an additional protocol connected to the fibre-optic project, rejecting some criticism of the process.