This encounter had a special significance for the leading Turkish politician. For Çavuşoğlu, who in August 2014 was then elected to the major office of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, tourism in his country is a crucial issue. He acknowledged the significance of RSD for Turkish tourism and for helping to secure employment.

And it’s a fact: with 200,000 tourist arrivals, RSD was the most important German tour operator for Turkey in the winter season. RSD educational tours with their professional all-round service, together with excellently trained tour operators, enjoy an excellent reputation with both holidaymakers and local Turkish partners.

What’s more, RSD has long been supporting work at unique antique excavation sites – above all in Patara and Myra. Minister Çavuşoğlu praised RSD’s engagement in this area not only as a contribution to the preservation of Turkey’s heritage, but also as an expression of the close ties between the German tour operator and Turkish culture and its people. The RSD owner Christian Funk commented: “We are delighted with this recognition from the highest level. In the future too, we’ll be working hard to promote sustainable tourism in this positive form.”