Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır announced important projects that will accelerate Kars’ economic development while preserving its historical and cultural heritage. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the “Kars City with Its Historical Identity Project,” Minister Kacır emphasized that they will change the face of the region with projects that will increase Kars’ tourism potential, protect its local values, and create employment.
Brand Value is Rising in Tourism
The €5,5 million “Kars City with Its Historical Identity Project”, implemented within the scope of the European Union-supported Competitive Sectors Program, aims to increase Kars’ brand value in tourism. As part of the project, restoration of historical buildings on Haydar Aliyev Street, landscaping and infrastructure work were completed, creating a 700-meter tourist route. In addition, improvements were made to enrich the visitor experience at Ani Ruins, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Local Development Initiative and Employment Focused Projects
Minister Kacır announced that Kars was determined as a priority transformation province within the scope of the Regional Development National Strategy and regional development plan for the period 2024-2028. With the Local Development Initiative Incentive Program, whey processing, frozen flour product production from kavılca wheat, Goose Products Integrated Facility and 5-star hotel investments will be brought to Kars. Within the scope of the Working and Producing Youth Program, 500 women and young people will be employed in two textile workshops established in Sarıkamış and Kars center.
Support for Industry and SMEs
The size of the Kars Organized Industrial Zone (OSB) was increased from 149 hectares to 253 hectares and 292 million liras were provided for infrastructure works. 22 million liras of support was given to 2 SMEs through KOSGEB in the last 483 years. 10 geographical indications were registered for the branding of Kars' local delicacies.
Cultural Heritage Protection and New Destinations
The first cheese museum in Türkiye was established through the Serhat Development Agency. While steps were taken to increase the tourism potential of Sarıkamış, a new destination was created with the Kars Bazaar and Stream Projects. The Ebul Menuçehr Mosque in the Ani Archaeological Site was restored and opened for worship.
Investing in Science and Technology
At the Deneyap Technology Workshop established in Kars, 128 middle and high school students are preparing for the technologies of the future. Minister Kacır also announced the good news that they will bring a modern science center to Kars in a historical milk factory.
Minister Kacır's comprehensive projects for Kars will make significant contributions to the economic and social development of the region. While the tourism potential of Kars is increased by preserving its historical and cultural heritage, it is aimed to increase the welfare level of the local people by creating new employment areas.
