Erdoğan: If There Is to Be a Solution, It Will Be Between Two States Based on Sovereign Equality

Speaking in the complex’s conference hall under the slogan “Strong State, Honorable Future,” Erdoğan took the stage following speeches by TRNC Assembly Speaker Ziya Öztürkler, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Numan Kurtulmuş, and TRNC President Ersin Tatar.

“We are on the land where legends were written by Turkish soldiers and freedom fighters—the pearl of the Mediterranean, the bastion of resistance,” Erdoğan said at the start of his remarks. He stated that the Presidential Complex reflects the dignity of the state, while the grandeur of the Parliament building symbolizes the Turkish Cypriot people’s commitment to democracy.

Wishing that the new complex, which he said is worthy of state prestige and power, would be beneficial for all, Erdoğan extended heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in bringing it to life.

“Our Names May Differ, But When It Comes to the Cyprus Cause, Our Surname Is the TRNC”

“We share the same culture, faith, and history with the Turkish Cypriot people, and we walk toward the future together,” Erdoğan said. He pointed out that those who wish to hinder the TRNC’s growing economy, increasing stability, and rising international profile are doing everything they can. “If they could, they would expel the Turks from the island—we are well aware of this,” he declared.

Criticizing efforts to divide the community based on lifestyle, attire, or religious differences, Erdoğan said: “Our Turkish Cypriot brothers and sisters see through this game, and we will not allow it. Our names may differ, but when it comes to the Cyprus cause, our surname is the TRNC.” He warned that those who seek discord and division will fail and affirmed that “with the support of guarantor state Turkey, the TRNC will continue to thrive.”

“If There Is to Be a Solution, It Will Not Be Between Two Communities, But Between Two States Based on Sovereign Equality”

Addressing the Cyprus issue, Erdoğan said, “Unless a solution that aligns with the island’s realities is found, it is out of the question for us to open our ports to the Greek Cypriot Administration.” He emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot people would no longer be made to pay the price for deadlock.

He noted that Turkish Cypriots have consistently demonstrated their willingness for a permanent solution and reiterated: “If there is to be a solution, it will not be between two communities, but between two states based on the principle of sovereign equality.” He also stressed the importance of maintaining political stability in the TRNC and urged resistance to artificial agendas.

“We Have Increased the TRNC’s Financial Allocation to 21 Billion Lira”

Erdoğan also addressed the new cooperation protocol published in the Official Gazette today. “With this year’s financial cooperation agreement, we have increased the allocation for the TRNC to 21 billion lira. In the new period, we will implement strategic moves to accelerate economic development and raise prosperity,” he said.

Noting investments in healthcare, Erdoğan said that the 650-bed Nicosia State Hospital would elevate the standard of healthcare in the TRNC. He also emphasized comprehensive upgrades to the island’s road infrastructure and noted that the opening of the new Ercan Airport had led to a 40% increase in passenger numbers.

“Just As We Brought Water, We Will Also Solve the Energy Issue”

Finally, Erdoğan highlighted the resolution of the TRNC’s long-standing water shortage, stating that this achievement had given the Turkish Cypriot community a major advantage over the southern side of the island. “Just as we brought water, we will absolutely solve the energy issue,” he pledged. He also announced plans to build a new wastewater treatment plant in the TRNC and vowed that Turkey would continue doing everything in its power to support the prosperity of the Turkish Cypriot people.