Izmir is opening the door to a new era in international health tourism. The visit to the city by the United Nations delegation on Sunday, February 22, 2026, was not only a diplomatic engagement but also marked the start of concrete investment and grant-supported projects. Following a series of meetings stretching from Geneva to Ankara, the delegation proceeded to Izmir, where they gathered at the headquarters of SANKON (Confederation of Industry and Trade) and SATKON (International Health Tourism Confederation) to evaluate planned projects in the field of health tourism. The signing of UN-approved and grant-supported agreements in various fields, particularly nursing homes, is considered a strategic step that will make Izmir a direct part of international investment networks. The meeting was attended by SATKON High Advisory Board Chairman Prof. Dr. Haşmet Mesut ÖZSOY and his delegation, SATKON Izmir Provincial Chairman Elif CANBAY and her management, Vision Media Group Board Chairman Taner ÖZGÜR, and Board Vice Chairmen Yavuz GÖL, Ömer GÖK, and Selma TOSUN. Following the discussions, a protocol signing ceremony was held for projects that had received grant approval. The photo taken during the delegation’s visit to Izmir shows the parties gathered around the same table to evaluate the projects. This meeting was not just a meeting; it stands out as a concrete demonstration of Izmir’s goal of becoming a regional center for health tourism. Elderly care services and health tourism investments hold strong potential in terms of both employment and the city’s economic development. This first investment initiative, supported by the United Nations, is considered a critical step towards making Izmir a global player in health tourism. Yazı gezinmesi Victory Party Sounds Alarm in Izmir: Resignations, Closed Districts, and “Signless” Organizations
