Öztürkler: “The Recognition of the TRNC Is a Duty for the Turkic World”

Speaking on the “Gün Ortası” program on Kıbrıs TV, Öztürkler acknowledged the difficult path the Turkish Cypriot people have endured, calling for calm and thoughtful analysis during challenging times. He noted that economic cooperation with the European Union played a significant role in the recent moves by Turkic states to open embassies in South Cyprus.

Underscoring the importance of unity with Turkey in what he called a national cause, Öztürkler said it is essential to continue advocating the TRNC’s case with resilience and clarity. He stressed that morale must be preserved so the public can grasp the broader implications of recent developments.

Öztürkler described the Eastern Mediterranean as a critical region where energy corridors intersect, maritime jurisdiction disputes remain unresolved, and regional powers compete for influence. Within this context, he argued, the TRNC holds strategic value not only for Turkey but also for all Turkic states.

Recalling that the Greek Cypriot side rejected the Annan Plan in 2004 and was nonetheless admitted into the EU unilaterally, Öztürkler pointed out that the rejection of the federation model was not limited to that referendum. He noted that the Greek Cypriot side had also blocked all efforts and negotiations under the federation framework, including the 2017 Crans-Montana talks.

Öztürkler criticized what he described as South Cyprus’s efforts to obstruct TRNC businesspeople and the real estate sector, calling it a direct attack on the island’s economic development. He emphasized the critical importance of real estate to the TRNC economy, noting that it attracts both local and international investors, contributes to growth, generates employment, and improves social welfare.

Highlighting that these restrictions aim to sabotage the TRNC’s international economic potential, Öztürkler called for unity and stronger economic solidarity. He urged the business community to adopt a firmer stance in the face of such challenges, emphasizing that economic cooperation and international partnerships are the most effective responses.