Van initiates health tourism cooperation with Iraqi delegation

A delegation from Iraq visited Van, Turkey, as part of the Van-Iraq Health Tourism Cooperation and Promotion Program. The initiative aims to increase the visibility of Van’s healthcare services in the Iraqi market and strengthen the city's position as a regional health tourism hub.

Organized by the Eastern Anatolia Development Agency (DAKA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Van Representation, the Van Provincial Directorate of Health, and the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), the program facilitated meetings between Iraqi agency owners and local hospital representatives. Discussions focused on Van’s geographical advantages, healthcare infrastructure, and the processes for admitting international patients.

The delegation visited several facilities, including the SBÜ Van Training and Research Hospital, Özel Urartu Eye Medical Center, and Özel Lokman Hekim Van Hospital. During these visits, officials presented the capacity and services offered by these institutions to explore potential long-term collaborations between healthcare providers and Iraqi agencies.