The 62nd Mehmetçik Grape Festival, attended by President Ersin Tatar, Assembly President Zorlu Töre, and Prime Minister Ünal Üstel opened on Friday night, BRTK reported.
Mehmetçik Büyükkonuk Municipality provided information about the event, where Mayor Fatma Çimen Tuğlu welcomed everyone with a heartfelt speech. “Welcome to this land that breathes the spirit of Galatia, where even stones seem to come alive and Aphrodite once roamed”, she said.
Tuğlu emphasised the festival’s significance in preserving the cultural heritage of the region and promoting grape-related products. “Our festival is more than just fun; it unites our community, strengthens cultural bonds, and boosts the local economy. This year’s program celebrates both our history and future, offering entertainment while keeping our traditions vibrant”.
She mentioned that the festival features grape products, art, sports, cultural activities, and concerts, including the 7th International Golden Cluster Folk Dance Festival. This event will showcase local folk dance groups as well as performers from Mexico and Croatia.
Tuğlu acknowledged the hard work behind the festival’s success, saying, “Since taking office, our municipality has maintained financial discipline, cleared debts, and ensured regular staff payments. We’ve worked closely with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Interior to strengthen our finances. I extend my gratitude to Prime Minister Ünal Üstel for his support“.
On increasing grape production, the mayor noted that an irrigation project in Mehmetçik is nearing completion, which will introduce modern irrigation systems to the vineyards.
She also highlighted the achievements of women in Pamuklu village in silkworm breeding and product processing under the “Rebirth of Silk in Northern Cyprus” project, thanking Ersin Tatar’s wife, Sibel, for her support.
Tuğlu said that handmade products sold at the festival play a crucial role in supporting the regional economy and women entrepreneurs, thanking everyone who contributed to the festival’s organisation.
Finally, Tuğlu affirmed that the Mehmetçik Grape Festival is not just a cultural event but also a key contributor to the regional economy and tourism.
The festival runs until Sunday, August 11.
