Dear participants,

Balıkesir, which is known as an important health destination with its resources and potential, is one of the most important candidates to be “Thermal Center of the Future". Providing remedy for citizens and inhabitants of the region for centuries with healing waters in almost every district,  Balıkesir derives its power in health tourism not only from its healing waters, but also from its unique nature and its ancient history. Having 291 kilometer long 23 blue-flag beaches and 30 kilometer long 8 zone declared as the protected thermal tourism center, Balıkesir, with Ida Mountain providing clean, refreshing air, is  the address for those who seek healing with clean air, olive and olive oil .

Working with a common spirit of comradeship and with the common sense in order to maximize its economic contribution, we will get Balıkesir, which stands out with its convenient location, easy accessibility and variety of transportation facilities, to take its rightful place in health tourism. We will work hard to develop the thermal tourism opportunities, to offer this potential to the people more efficiently and to improve the quality of existing facilities by improving the quality of services to encourage new investors. I am honored to host the 4th International Thermal and Health Summit in Balıkesir and to host our guests from all over the world in our city.

Yücel YILMAZ
Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor