UNWTO Strongly Condemns Attack at Istanbul Ataturk Airport

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) strongly condemned the attack perpetrated on Tuesday night at Ataturk‬ International Airport in ‎Turkey‬.

According to international press reports, three suicide bombers detonated their explosives at Ataturk airport after police opened fire on them. The final death toll was calculated at 36 and 147 people have been injured, reports said on Wednesday morning. Most of the casualties were Turkish citizens.

“On behalf of the entire international tourism community, UNWTO conveys its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and expresses its full solidarity with the people and the Government of Turkey”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

“Today we were reminded once again that we are facing a global threat that requires a firm and coordinated response by all governments and the international community”, he added.

Mr Rifai recalled that safety and security is a priority for the tourism sector and that the sector is being targeted as a pillar of the economy and livelihoods in many countries. He called upon the international tourism community to stand by Turkey in facing this challenge and recalled that at times as this “we need to cooperate and not isolate affected destinations.

“Turkey is a leading tourism destination and we are confident it will continue to be so; it is now time to support Turkey”, he added.