Hakan Fidan: "Arming South Cyprus Could Trigger a New Arms Race on the Island"

Speaking during the presentation of the 2025 budget for his ministry and affiliated institutions at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Fidan reiterated Turkey's firm stance on Cyprus.

"Arming the Greek Cypriot Administration could trigger a new arms race on the island. On the Cyprus issue, our national cause, we will never compromise on the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people. We emphasize this at all platforms, including the United Nations," Fidan stated.

He also addressed relations with Greece, emphasizing the continuation of efforts under the positive agenda. "We are maintaining our initiatives to protect the rights of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace and our compatriots living in the Dodecanese islands. Simultaneously, we are resolutely safeguarding our rights and interests in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, both on the ground and at the negotiating table," Fidan added.