This is a time when ICCA’s global community must stand in solidarity with our colleagues in Istanbul and the rest of Turkey, who are suffering as a result of delegate fears and conference cancellations in the wake of recent terror attacks. ICCA members from the major European destinations recognise the vital role Istanbul’s meetings industry has played over recent decades as a bridge between Europe and the Middle East, fostering dynamic scientific and business collaboration, and cross-cultural understanding.
We all suffer when this bridge is damaged, and we will support our Turkish friends as they work to restore confidence and rebuild their business. At the same time, we know and appreciate that all ICCA members in Turkey are deeply saddened by the suffering endured by their European colleagues whose cities have been targeted. In these difficult times, all ICCA members are reminded that international meetings are a force for good in the world, and that this unites all competitors in a common fight for civilised values.
