VOICED : Istanbul attack deals fresh blow to fragile Turkey tourism

In 2015, Istanbul attracted 12 million tourists, but recent attacks, including one on January 12th that killed 10 German tourists, have dampened the holiday spirit. Turkey's tourism, already hit by October bombings in Ankara, faces further challenges as the Islamic State targets the sector. German and Russian tourists, previously the largest groups, are now warned against visiting due to geopolitical tensions. Tourism is vital to Turkey's economy, with the government aiming for 50 million tourists by 2023, a goal now in jeopardy due to declining profits.

What was the impact of the bombings in Ankara on Turkey's tourism?

Why is tourism considered essential to Turkey's identity?