AS part of ongoing dialogue for greater ties between the two, Didim has been officially twinned with the Greek island of Leros.

Didim Municipality signed an agreement with Leros city officials during a press conference held while the Bodrum Cup, a annual sailing event, was on.

Speaking at a press conference, Didim Mayor Deniz Atabay said the accord was the work of 12 months to talks between the two, and would now seek to provide greater economic links between the two.

Mr Atabay said that while both councils had agreed several months ago on a pact for greater ties, the official agreement had only been forthcoming after it had been rubber stamped by the Greek government.

The mayor attended the Bodrum cup races and while on Leros, the ceremonies were performed and speeches given.

He pledged for greater collaboration on inter-tourism projects, student exchange and cultural visits. He raised the possibility of a ferry between the two resorts, as was promised last year for this season, but negotiations were ongoing.

The two councils will also seek solutions on the refugee problems that both are experiencing from the influx of Syrians at the moment.

Didim Chamber of Commerce member Hikmet spoke of the need to bring the tourism of both regions together and act cohesively.