Fahrettin Altun, Director of Communications for the Turkish Presidency, underscored that the Cyprus issue is not merely a foreign policy matter for Turkey but a national cause and a bond of brotherhood, during a panel discussion hosted in the capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
Organized by Turkey’s Presidency of Communications, the panel, titled “The Key to a Solution in Cyprus: Two Sovereign Equal States,” took place in Lefkoşa on Friday. In a video message addressing attendees, Altun emphasized the deep significance of the Cyprus issue for Turkey, describing it as a matter rooted in national identity and solidarity with the Turkish Cypriot people.
Altun recalled the historical struggles of Turkish Cypriots, who faced oppression, exclusion, and violence under the Greek Cypriot administration’s pursuit of ENOSIS—a plan for union with Greece—and ethnic cleansing policies. He highlighted the immense suffering endured by Turkish Cypriots as a result of these actions.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment in Cyprus’ history, Altun noted that after exhausting all political and diplomatic avenues, Turkey exercised its guarantor rights under international law to launch the Cyprus Peace Operation on July 20, 1974. This operation, he said, marked a turning point for Turkish Cypriots, paving the way for peace and security on the island.
Over the decades since the operation, Altun stressed, Turkish Cypriots have consistently approached federation-based solution efforts with sincerity and maintained a commitment to peace. However, he pointed out that the Greek Cypriot side’s intransigent stance has repeatedly disregarded the goodwill and resolve of the Turkish Cypriot community.
Citing the 2004 Annan Plan as a stark example, Altun recalled that 65% of Turkish Cypriots voted in favor of the UN-backed proposal, while 76% of Greek Cypriots rejected it, effectively sabotaging yet another opportunity for peace. He criticized the European Union for rewarding this obstruction by unilaterally admitting the Greek Cypriot administration as a member, despite the clear rejection of a peaceful resolution.
Altun asserted that the time has come to discuss a new framework for resolving the Cyprus issue. He reaffirmed Turkey’s steadfast support for a two-state solution, which recognizes the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people.
Highlighting a significant diplomatic milestone, Altun referenced President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s call to the international community during the 77th UN General Assembly to recognize the TRNC. He further noted Erdoğan’s remarks during his visit to the TRNC on May 3, 2025, where the Turkish leader reiterated Turkey’s commitment to intensifying efforts for the TRNC’s recognition and vowed never to leave the Turkish Cypriot people isolated or unsupported.
TRNC’s New Republic Campus Symbolizes Permanent Presence
Altun also highlighted the opening of the TRNC Republic Campus during Erdoğan’s May visit, describing it as a powerful symbol of the Turkish Cypriots’ independence, sovereignty, and enduring legitimate presence on the island.
He pointed to additional demonstrations of Turkey’s support, including the hosting of TEKNOFEST—a showcase of Turkey’s national technology advancements—in the TRNC, which reflects the strong ties between the two nations. Altun also praised the emphasis on the TRNC’s integral role within the Turkish world, as articulated during the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Budapest on May 20-21, 2025.
In closing, Altun reaffirmed the Turkish Cypriot people’s deep-rooted history, unyielding resolve, and honorable aspirations in the region. He pledged that Turkey views the TRNC’s just cause as its own and will continue to provide unwavering support in all forms to advance the Turkish Cypriot people’s rights and future.
