Öztürkler: No Concessions on Sovereign Equality

Speaking on BRT’s Manşet Artı program, Öztürkler underscored that fundamental principles such as a two-state solution, sovereign equality, and the presence of Turkish troops on the island remain non-negotiable. He criticized Greek Cypriot Parliament Speaker Annita Demetriou’s call for an agreement without Turkey’s guarantorship, stating, “This approach is unacceptable. Turkey’s guarantorship and military presence are our red lines.”

Öztürkler reiterated that the Turkish Cypriot delegation in Geneva, led by President Ersin Tatar, is firmly advocating for the rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriot people in coordination with Turkey. He highlighted the necessity of international recognition of Turkish Cypriots' sovereign equality and equal international status, emphasizing that it is time for the international community to take Turkish Cypriot proposals seriously.

Referring to historical events leading up to the 1960 Cyprus Republic and the subsequent developments in 1963, Öztürkler pointed out that Turkish Cypriots have faced ongoing attempts to violate their rights. He reaffirmed that President Tatar and the Turkish Cypriot leadership will continue defending key principles, stressing that Turkey’s guarantorship and military presence are essential for peace and stability on the island.