Serdar Denktaş: “We Feel Stabbed in the Back” Over EU Deal with Turkic States

Denktaş noted that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) only recently became an observer member of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), with the ultimate goal being full membership. He expressed disappointment that the Greek Cypriot administration had swiftly mobilized to counter this move by leveraging its EU membership.

"TRNC Is More of a State Than Those Who Signed the Deal"

Pointing to the €12 billion agreement signed by four Turkic states with the EU under Greek Cypriot initiatives, Denktaş remarked, “The TRNC is more of a state than those who signed that deal. It may not be recognized, the world may ignore it, but the TRNC is a state that was born in 1983.”

"We Feel Stabbed in the Back"

Denktaş conveyed a sense of betrayal by the four Turkic states, stating, “They have effectively declared that they will not recognize the TRNC and will move forward with the Greek Cypriot side. We are saddened… We feel stabbed in the back.”

He acknowledged that the OTS may not yield significant gains for the TRNC, but criticized the false hope created around potential recognition by member states. “We must also accept some of the blame ourselves,” he added.

"We Exist and Will Continue to Exist"

Referring to the opening of embassies by Turkic states in the south, Denktaş asserted, “The fact that they are opening embassies in South Cyprus does not mean we cease to exist. We are here and we will continue to be here.”

"A Serious Bargain Is Taking Place Over Cyprus"

Denktaş criticized Turkey’s handling of the situation, questioning whether Ankara was unaware of the developments or simply chose to remain silent. “If Turkey knew and stayed silent, we must look at the bigger picture. A serious bargain is taking place over Cyprus,” he warned.

"Two States Is the Right Policy, But We Are on the Wrong Path"

Denktaş underlined the lack of consensus within the TRNC regarding the Cyprus issue. “It’s clear that federation is no longer viable. A two-state solution is the correct policy, but we are pursuing it the wrong way. Our own leaders don’t truly believe they are heading a state,” he said.

Calling the current period “the worst we’ve ever experienced,” Denktaş once again declared that the idea of federation is dead. “Through our words and actions, we are strengthening the Greek Cypriot hand,” he added.

Presidential Candidacy on the Horizon

Confirming his intention to return to active politics, Denktaş responded to a question on whether he would run for president by saying: “We are currently discussing how I will return to active politics. A presidential bid is certainly one of the options. We will decide within a week or two.”

Signaling a potential presidential candidacy, he concluded, “Last time I ran as an independent; now we’ll see. It depends on what my colleagues decide.”