Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on April 21 announced that the government aims to relax COVID-19 restrictions and return to normal life by the end of Eid al-Fitr, the feast marking the end of Ramadan, fueling the hopes of the country’s severely ailing tourism sector.

Why it matters: Leading figures in Turkey's tourism industry have been pinning their hopes on a kick start to tourist season in June, after the monthslong imposition of international and national COVID-19 restrictions that have paralyzed the industry. Remarks by Erdogan on April 20-21 give them additional reason to hope. In Turkey, Ramadan starts April 24, and the Eid al-Fitr begins May 24. 

“Ensuring strict adherence to the measures throughout the month of Ramadan, hopefully we can ensure the transition of our country to normal life after the feast,” Erdogan said on April 20 in a televised speech after a Cabinet meeting. The president reiterated his commitment the following day in a televised address to members of his Justice and Development Party, suggesting that lockdowns and some restrictions on travel could be loosened by the end of May.

Tourism is a major pillar of the Turkish economy. The sector broke a record last year, bringing in almost $35 billion in revenues. More than 1.5 million people make a living from tourism.