PM Üstel: The Importance of Sovereignty and Guarantees Has Been Reaffirmed

Speaking on recent international developments and the Cyprus issue, Üstel pointed to the prolonged conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, and noted the recent outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Iran. He criticized the international community for its silence, stating, “These wars continue unabated. It is evident how ineffective international institutions have become.”

Üstel emphasized that these developments once again demonstrate the significance of sovereignty and guarantees. Referring to the aftermath of the 1974 Peace Operation, he noted that population exchanges had taken place, followed by efforts related to property distribution. However, he added that the Greek Cypriot side has obstructed these efforts by invoking the Guardian Law.

Stressing that the property issue should be resolved through return or exchange, Üstel condemned the arrests made by the Greek Cypriot authorities as unlawful. “Our people are being intimidated. The Greek Cypriot side is doing everything it can to collapse our economy,” he said.

Üstel also stated that upon coming to power, the government created a separate funding mechanism for the Immovable Property Commission (IPC) and made the necessary payments. He reported that 230 cases have been resolved to date.

The Prime Minister concluded by underscoring the long-standing struggle of Turkish Cypriots for justice: “We demand justice from the world. The Turkish Cypriot people have never received the justice they deserve. Under Turkey’s guarantee, we must be a sovereign state.”