Tatar: “There Is No Such Thing as a Turkish Occupation”

Speaking during a meeting with the Board of Directors of the Foreign Press Association, chaired by Burhan Canbaz, Tatar underlined that such rhetoric could not be tolerated and criticized the influence of the church in Greek Cypriot politics.

"The Language of Hatred Cannot Be Digested"

Highlighting the significant role the church plays in the political life of the Greek Cypriot community, Tatar said, “There is a widespread perception that the church can also govern politics.” Referring specifically to the Archbishop’s recent comments, Tatar said he was shocked by the message. “He says ‘we will end the Turkish occupation’ — the language used is one of hatred. There is no Turkish occupation,” he stressed.

Tatar recalled that Archbishop Makarios once served as President of the Republic of Cyprus, noting the imbalance this represented in a supposed partnership between two communities — one Muslim and one Christian — under a single state.

He pointed out that similarly provocative language had been used on April 1, the anniversary of the founding of the EOKA, and reiterated that such statements are unacceptable.

"Church Holds Significant Power in the South"

Tatar emphasized that some may dismiss these statements as insignificant, but in the south, the church's influence is considerable. “It is clear what the church and the Archbishop represent,” he said.

He also pointed to the 1974 events, saying, “If the coup attempt on July 15 had succeeded, this place would have become a Greek island.”

Referencing Atatürk’s stance that Cyprus should not fall into enemy hands, Tatar touched on the historical context of Cyprus being leased to Britain and the implications of the Lausanne Treaty.

He reiterated that the Turkish Cypriot side is committed to protecting the people’s interests, rights, security, and national values and expressed readiness for a cooperative, dialogue-based solution for the benefit of both communities. However, he criticized the Greek Cypriot side for its unwillingness to engage in genuine cooperation.

"65% of Border Traffic Passes Through Metehan"

Addressing the issue of border crossings, Tatar noted that although there are nine checkpoints, 65% of traffic goes through Metehan. He criticized Greek Cypriot statements about tearing down walls, saying those who make such declarations continue to oppose even the opening of new crossing points.

“Easing the crossing process would benefit not only the Turkish Cypriots but also the Greek Cypriots,” he added.

Tatar emphasized the importance of communicating the realities of the Cyprus issue to the public and reaffirmed his commitment to the two-state policy as the only viable solution.

On Diplomatic Engagements and the Two-State Policy

Responding to reports that some member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) may open embassies in the south, Tatar said, “We must continue our efforts to strengthen our historical and cultural ties within the OTS. However, we will never abandon our two-state policy because of such developments.”

“The game of federation is over. This is something I always share with my people,” he said firmly.

TEKNOFEST: “A Historic Gathering for the TRNC”

Tatar also spoke about the upcoming TEKNOFEST, scheduled to take place in the TRNC from May 1–4, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expected to attend. He described the event as a historic moment for the country, drawing international participation and boosting the TRNC’s visibility.

He extended his gratitude to Selçuk Bayraktar, Chair of Baykar and CTO of the company, as well as head of the T3 Foundation, for supporting the event.

“The TRNC is part of the Blue Homeland. It is located in the most strategic area of the Eastern Mediterranean, and what happens here is of great importance,” Tatar noted, underscoring the strategic significance of the region.

Foreign Press Association Pledges to Uphold Core Values

During the same event, Foreign Press Association Chairman Burhan Canbaz highlighted the association’s recent general assembly and the formation of a new board. He stressed that while board members may change over time, the organization’s vision and values remain constant.

“We are determined to carry on the struggle of our predecessors with the same passion and dedication,” Canbaz said, emphasizing the association’s close working relationship with the Office of the President.