Ertuğruloğlu: "Turkey Can Act in Its Own Interests; No Need for Advice"

Ertuğruloğlu acknowledged that a genuine resolution would benefit both communities as well as Turkey and Greece. However, he accused opposition MPs of speaking about "a solution" rather than a "real solution," arguing that their approach was insufficient.

Addressing criticisms about "creating perceptions," he stated, "It is clear who is responsible for baseless perception operations."

"What Is Considered the Problem Differs"

Minister Ertuğruloğlu highlighted that differing views exist on what constitutes the actual problem in the Cyprus issue. He noted that unless there is consensus on defining the problem, debates will continue indefinitely.

According to Ertuğruloğlu, the Cyprus problem has two key explanations: First, the international recognition of the Greek Cypriot side as the "Republic of Cyprus," which works against Turkish Cypriots, and second, the widespread Greek Cypriot propaganda influencing global opinion. He questioned how negotiations could be expected under such conditions.

"Are We at Fault for Standing Firm Against the Greek Cypriots?"

"If we are standing firm against the Greek Cypriots, is that a crime? I struggle to understand this," Ertuğruloğlu said. He stressed that as long as the world continues to recognize the Greek Cypriot side as the "Republic of Cyprus," no progress would be made, even in another 600 years. He also dismissed claims that the Greek Cypriot side's dominant stance is merely linked to negotiations, calling such arguments "misleading information."

"Everyone desires a solution, but what kind of solution?" Ertuğruloğlu asked, emphasizing that the stance of Greek Cypriot leaders has not changed. He asserted that none of them respect the rightful cause, sovereignty, and equality of the Turkish Cypriot people.

Ertuğruloğlu reiterated that the Greek Cypriot side does not consider Turkish Cypriots as equals and continues to view the island as a Hellenic island. Rejecting the opposition’s criticisms, he stated that the Turkish Cypriot side would not accept Greek Cypriot attempts to frame upcoming Geneva talks as a continuation of Crans-Montana. "We are going there to discuss cooperation between two neighboring states, not to continue old negotiations," he said, adding, "Let them blame us if they wish. We are not doing anything wrong."

Highlighting Turkey’s firm position that the idea of a federation is no longer on the table and that sovereign equality must be recognized, Ertuğruloğlu pointed to statements made at the United Nations General Assembly and in diplomatic meetings. He reaffirmed that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will continue moving forward alongside Turkey within this framework.