UK MP and Trade Envoy Afzal Khan visits North Cyprus, highlighting growing diplomatic and trade relations between the UK and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
UK’s Trade Envoy Visits North Cyprus: Afzal Khan Receives Honorary Doctorate from GAU
In a significant diplomatic moment, Afzal Khan, Labour MP for Manchester Rusholme and the UK’s official Trade Envoy to Türkiye, has arrived in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) for a series of official meetings and public engagements.
His visit, hosted at the invitation of TRNC President Ersin Tatar, is being seen as an important step forward in the evolving relationship between the UK and Northern Cyprus, particularly in the areas of trade and diplomacy.
Warm Welcome at Ercan Airport
Afzal Khan was welcomed at Ercan Airport by a distinguished group of leaders and community figures, including:
- UBP General Secretary Oguzhan Hasipoglu
- MPs Ahmet Savagan and Aligan San
- Prof. Dr. Serdar Yurtsever, Rector of Girne American University (GAU)
- Senior TRNC Presidential officials
- Nawaz Muhammad, President of the Pakistan Union & Culture Association
- Businessman Ziya Emir
Honored by GAU for Political Contributions
On 11 August, Khan will be awarded an honorary doctorate in Politics and International Relations by Girne American University (GAU), recognizing his contributions to international diplomacy, interfaith dialogue, and UK-Turkiye relations.
A Longstanding Advocate for International Cooperation
A seasoned political figure, Afzal Khan is a former member of the UK Shadow Cabinet and currently holds roles as:
- Vice Chair of the APPG on British Muslims
- Deputy Chair of cross-party groups on Pakistan, Hajj and Umrah, and poverty alleviation
His presence in North Cyprus is a strong signal of the UK’s growing interest in engaging with the TRNC, especially as direct flight access and bilateral cooperation gain momentum. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io