We have lost Altan Öymen, one of our former Ministers of Tourism and Promotion…

We have learned with deep sorrow of the passing of Mr. Altan Öymen, who served as Minister of Tourism and Promotion between 21 June and 21 July 1977, and who was one of the doyens of Turkish journalism and politics.

Born in Trabzon in 1932, Altan Öymen began his journalism career at a young age and entered political life in the 1960s. He was elected as a member of parliament for the Republican People's Party and served as Chairman of the CHP between 1999 and 2000.

A powerful writer as well, Altan Öymen authored numerous memoirs and research books that shed light on Türkiye's recent history. He was an intellectual who left his mark on generations through his contributions to the fields of press, politics, and culture.

A state ceremony for Mr. Altan Öymen will be held on Monday, 21 July 2025, in Ankara at the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. The funeral prayer will be performed on Tuesday, 22 July 2025, at Teşvikiye Mosque following the noon prayer. After the ceremony, the remains of the late Öymen will be laid to rest at Zincirlikuyu Cemetery.

During his time as Minister, Mr. Öymen made valuable contributions to Turkish tourism; he will always be remembered with respect for his principled stance, visionary character, and intellectual depth.

We pray for God's mercy upon this distinguished statesman, politician, and member of the press who rendered important services to our country, and we extend our condolences and wishes of patience to his family, his loved ones, and the entire tourism community.

Respectfully,

TÜROB – Association of Turkish Hoteliers

Müberra ERESİN
President