Facing backlash over 'support to Pak', Turkey resorts to damage control; welcomes Indians

Facing a backlash from Indian travellers and a wave of trip cancellations, Turkey has launched a public campaign to control the damage caused by its recent show of support for Pakistan during the latest India-Pakistan conflict.

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In response to growing criticism, Turkey’s Department of Tourism has issued a public appeal to Indian tourists, urging them to continue visiting the country. The statement assures Indian travellers of their safety and reiterates Turkey’s long-standing tradition of hospitality.

A social media post, widely circulated and attributed to Turkey’s tourism authority, states that Indian visitors are “welcomed and treated with the utmost courtesy across Turkey -- in hotels, restaurants, shops, and all tourist attractions -- just as they have always been.”

The post seeks to distance Turkey’s tourism sector from geopolitical tensions, noting that “the vast majority of the local population is unaware of the conflict taking place between India and Pakistan, and it has no bearing on daily life or the tourism environment here.”

It further clarifies that all travel operations remain fully functional and that there are “no restrictions or safety issues impacting Indian guests.”

Reaffirming its commitment to Indian visitors, the statement concludes, “We remain fully committed to ensuring your comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout your stay in Turkiye.” Indian tourists with concerns have been encouraged to contact the department for further clarification.