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President Tufan Erhürman criticized the recent remarks made by Greek Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias regarding the Cyprus issue, Turkish Cypriots, and Türkiye.
In a statement shared on his social media account, Erhürman noted that all those who think rationally and advocate for peace and civilization are calling for, and working toward preventing and further escalation of tensions both globally and in the region, and for a prompt return to negotiations on the basis of international law through diplomacy and dialogue.
Erhürman further stated:
“At such a time, remarks by Greek Defence Minister, Dendias, on the Cyprus issue, Turkish Cypriots, and Türkiye are to say the least in consistent with the sense of responsibility and seriousness required in the current circumstances”
Yılmaz: “Greek Cypriot Administration granting privileges to third countries at military bases poses a risk to everyone on the island.”
Vice President of the Republic of Türkiye, Cevdet Yılmaz, stated that as tensions escalate in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean, the Greek Cypriot Administration’s decision to grant of usage privileges to third countries at its military bases poses a risk to everyone on the island.
Yılmaz, who arrived in the country for a one-day visit, made remarks during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Ünal Üstel at Ercan International Airport:
“The fact that the island is being used for operations in the Middle East poses a risk to all countries in the region. The developments that have taken place this week have made this abundantly clean.
The Greek Cypriot Administration, acting as if it owns the entire island, has making decisions that exceed its authority while disregarding the will and sovereign equality of the Turkish Cypriot people. Its attempts to position itself amid great power rivalries, particularly through its recent military engagements and base policies, have increased security risks concerning the island.
The Greek Cypriot Administration displayed similar attitudes during the genocide in Gaza and embarked on an excessive militarization effort with Israel’s support. In this context, Türkiye’s responsibility as a guarantor and its historical obligations have become even more evident.
As the guarantor and motherland, our military presence on the island for more than half a century has contributed to the island’s overall security and stability and has served as a guarantee for peace. Not only the TRNC but also the Greek Cypriot Administration has benefited from this stability and developed in a secure environment. For more than 50 years, there has been peace and tranquility on this island. Where there is no security, there can be no development and no prosperity.”
Turkish Ministry of National Defence: “We will not hesitate to exercise the powers granted to us under our guarantor status against any actions that threaten the security of Turkish Cypriots”
Following the weekly press briefing at the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry made statements in response to questions from members of the press.
When asked about recent developments in Iran, the Ministry stated that Türkiye’s main priority is to halt the ongoing attacks in the region, achieve a lasting ceasefire, and resolve all disputes through peaceful means. It also called on all parties involved to immediately end hostilities and resolve their issues through dialogue and diplomatic channels.
Responding to questions regarding the security of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the Ministry emphasized that Türkiye continues to stand by and support the TRNC, just as it has in the past. It added that Türkiye would not hesitate to exercise the rights and authorities granted to it under its guarantor status if the security of Turkish Cypriots is threatened.
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