Denktaş: “Something Is Happening Around Us Without Our Involvement”

Speaking on a live broadcast, Denktaş shared his views on the appointment of Turkey’s new ambassador to Nicosia and the remarks of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding Cyprus.

Denktaş noted that he was abroad during Fidan’s latest visit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) but had closely followed the developments. “The statements made by Mr. Hakan Fidan during his recent visit to Cyprus align exactly with my own views. Turkey’s approach to the region and the messages of peace it conveys through its visits are clear. Turkey is actively engaging with conflict-ridden countries, emphasizing that war and conflict yield no benefits, while peace ensures gains for all. When considering all these factors together, it is evident that significant developments are on the horizon for this strategically crucial island,” he said.

“The Belief in Statehood Has Been Erased from the People's Hearts”

Denktaş expressed his belief that a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation was no longer a feasible solution, while also arguing that the two-state model could not progress under current circumstances.

“With the current steps being taken, it will be difficult to gain international recognition for the two-state solution. This is because the existing administration has eradicated the belief in statehood from the hearts of its own people. That is the unfortunate reality. If your own people do not believe in it, you cannot convince the world. We must now understand that a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation is no longer an option. This is not because of us or Turkey, but because of the Greek Cypriot side. However, blaming them alone is not entirely fair. The root of the problem lies in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions,” Denktaş said, emphasizing that Turkey was the only actor capable of overcoming this challenge.

“We cannot single-handedly challenge the UN’s recognition of the Greek Cypriot administration as the sole legitimate authority on the island. However, Turkey can,” he added.

“I Am Deeply Committed to This Land”

Denktaş stated that alternative approaches exist beyond the two prevailing models and stressed his determination to continue working on solutions.

“Despite the polarized political atmosphere in the country, there are middle-ground solutions that can help us move forward. I am dedicated to this cause. I love this country and this land deeply. I grew up here, and I want my children and grandchildren to grow up here as well. This is our homeland. We are a people who fought for and established a state in the 20th century. After the Turkish Republic, we were the second state founded through a national struggle. We are more democratic and respectful of human rights than many UN member states.

“The real issue is that we have lost our self-confidence. Those leading the state do not believe in its existence. If this continues, we will become internally fragmented. That is the unfortunate truth. If our own people do not believe in our state, we cannot expect the world to do so. So, what is the solution? We must move step by step towards our goal. We have a plan, and we need to discuss it with Turkey and the political parties here,” he concluded.