Tatar: "The Turkish Cypriot People Suffered Greatly"

President Tatar made these remarks during a meeting with Dr. Mustafa Canbey, Deputy Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (GNAT), Member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Turkish Group, and Chairman of the Turkey-Argentina Parliamentary Friendship Group, along with his accompanying delegation.

The Struggles of the Turkish Cypriot People

Tatar, expressing his pleasure at the visit, noted that dynamic processes are ongoing regarding the Cyprus issue. He pointed out that relations with various institutions, including the United Nations, European Union, and different countries, continue.

Tatar stressed that they are working to increase the visibility of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), and emphasized their commitment to the two-state solution. He thanked President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Turkey for being the biggest supporter of this cause.

Historical Context and Struggles

Recalling the history of Cyprus, Tatar highlighted that many civilizations have settled on the island, but the longest period was under the Ottoman Empire. He also referenced a quote from Turkish President Erdoğan, "We were here before 1571. Therefore, we have always existed, and now we exist and will continue to do so."

Tatar pointed out that the Greek Cypriots have always tried to exhaust, expel, and eliminate the Turkish Cypriot people, but they have always relied on Turkey for support.

Reflecting on the painful experiences, Tatar mentioned that the Turkish Cypriot people were forcefully expelled from the Cyprus Republic as an equal founding partner. He stated that the Turkish Cypriots have endured great suffering throughout history.

The Two-State Solution

Tatar emphasized that the current political solution is based on two states. He noted that all efforts have been exhausted, and Greek Cypriots have rejected all opportunities for a settlement. Tatar stressed that Turkey's historical rights, legal claims, and international agreements have to be respected.

He also underscored that the TRNC's struggle is part of a greater vision for the future of Cyprus, which includes collaboration between the two states for prosperity and lasting peace.

Future Prospects and Cooperation

Tatar reaffirmed that the future process must involve two-state cooperation, with both the TRNC and Turkey seeking a solution. He pointed to the "Century's Project" as a major opportunity to bring wealth and development to Cyprus.

He concluded by stating that Turkey's presence in Cyprus, particularly the Cyprus Turkish Peacekeeping Forces, remains the guarantor of peace and stability on the island.

Canbey: "We Are Happy to Be with the Turkish Cypriots"

Dr. Mustafa Canbey expressed his happiness to be in Cyprus, highlighting the importance of international recognition for the TRNC. He wished success for Tatar in upcoming negotiations in Geneva and assured continued support for their struggle.