Üstel: Turkish Cypriots Have Been Fighting for Their Existence Since the 1950s

Üstel, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu, addressed attendees at the event, expressing gratitude for the sacrifices of Turkish Cypriot businesspeople and the support of Turkey.

Highlighting the pivotal role of the 1974 Peace Operation, Üstel said the Turkish Cypriot people achieved their freedom thanks to the intervention and paid tribute to then Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit and Deputy Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan.

“Our presence and voice today are thanks to the Republic of Turkey,” Üstel said, acknowledging Turkey as the Turkish Cypriots’ greatest supporter. “Since 20 July 1974, if the Turkish Cypriots have come this far with their economy, social life, and infrastructure, it is due to the dedication and perseverance of our businesspeople,” he added.

He thanked businessman Salih Kayım and his family for their contributions to Cyprus and commented on the challenges Turkish Cypriot businesspeople face abroad: “Our businesspeople know better than anyone the true nature of the Greeks and Greek Cypriots. They have seen their pressure at every promotional fair they attended, but they were never afraid or discouraged. They travelled the world and promoted the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, heroically showcasing their achievements.”

Drawing a parallel with ongoing global crises, Üstel said: “Look at what’s happening in Palestine—children are being burned, women are being killed under bombs, and the world remains silent. We lived through similar days. Today, we look to the future with hope.”

He also underlined tourism as the driving force of the TRNC economy, describing the country as a growing education hub with an expanding construction sector. “It is an island united with its agriculture, livestock, nature, and culture,” he said.

Ataoğlu: “If I Am Here Today, I Owe It to the Turkish Soldiers”

Deputy Prime Minister Fikri Ataoğlu also recalled the events leading up to the 1974 operation, saying: “Even in our village, mass grave pits had been prepared. If I’m here today, alive and with you, I owe it to the Turkish soldiers who came from our motherland, Turkey, to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. I owe it to our motherland. If I must give my life for it today, I am ready. Let us all stand together and protect the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.”

The event also featured speeches from Deputy Governor of Bursa Salih Altun, Bursa Metropolitan Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, and businessman Salih Kayım. The programme concluded with commemorative gifts presented to participants.