Turkish Defence Ministry: Turkey Will Not Hesitate to Exercise Its Guarantor Rights

Speaking at the ministry’s weekly press briefing, Aktürk stressed:
"Turkey, as before, will not refrain from exercising the powers granted by its guarantor status against the GCASC’s activities that threaten the security of Turkish Cypriots and the climate of peace and stability on the island."

Responding to recent remarks made by the Archbishop of the Greek Cypriot Church, Aktürk said these statements must be considered alongside the emergence of a new terrorist organisation allegedly linked to recent tensions:
"These remarks are a clear reflection of the discriminatory, fanatical and provocative mindset that has historically led to deadlock on the island. Ignoring historical facts and distorting the current situation and Turkey’s presence on Cyprus, this mentality remains the greatest obstacle to peace, dialogue and constructive engagement."

He went on to say that this stance disregards international law and human values and directly targets the legitimate rights and security of the Turkish Cypriot people:
"It must not be forgotten that Cyprus has never been a Greek island. Any plans shaped by this notion are doomed to fail and will not be allowed to succeed. The Turkish Cypriots are the island’s original and equal partners, and no force will be able to displace them from their homeland."

Aktürk concluded by urging the GCASC to abandon hostile rhetoric and instead adopt a rational approach that contributes to a solution based on the sovereign equality of both communities:
"If peace prevails on the island today, it is thanks to Turkey. Turkey will continue to act within the scope of its guarantor responsibilities to protect peace and the Turkish Cypriot people’s security."