“I Worked Tirelessly Throughout My Term,” Says President Tatar

The event began with a moment of silence and the national anthem, and was attended by President Tatar alongside Economy and Energy Minister Olgun Amcaoğlu and other officials. During the gathering, a video presentation highlighted Tatar’s domestic and international engagements, including visits to Turkish Cypriots living abroad.

Tatar Highlights Tireless Service

In his speech, President Tatar expressed his pleasure in hosting the bureaucrats and thanked them for their service. Reflecting on his five-year tenure, Tatar emphasized that, as someone emerging from the public, he worked continuously both domestically and internationally, representing the Turkish Cypriot people with the support of Turkey.

He noted that the “two-state policy” was a result of the Greek Cypriot side’s longstanding stance, highlighting the importance of sovereignty recognition under the EU framework. Addressing criticisms about not meeting the Greek Cypriot leader, Tatar stated: “I do not strike below the belt, but some reports have portrayed us unfairly. Negotiations without recognition of our sovereignty are meaningless, yet our achievements and efforts to promote the TRNC have been undervalued.”

Tatar underlined that the TRNC is an independent state, stressed that the Greek Cypriots have never genuinely pursued equality-based agreements, and reiterated that the two-state policy is both necessary and timely. He also shared updates on the new presidential complex and announced that the old presidential building will be converted into a museum.

“The TRNC Continues to Develop Despite Isolation”

President Tatar emphasized that despite ongoing isolation, the TRNC continues to grow and develop. He thanked the bureaucrats for their contributions to the state’s progress and stressed the importance of strengthening infrastructure, educating youth with national values, and preparing them for the future. He also highlighted plans to support sports development, including seeking Turkey’s assistance for sports infrastructure to ensure athletes’ growth and continuity of sports programs.