Destici: Two-State Solution Remains the Most Viable Path for Cyprus

Speaking at a press conference in Nicosia’s Grand Pasha Hotel during his visit to the TRNC, Destici was joined by senior party officials. Addressing the audience with the words “my dear compatriots and brothers,” he conveyed his greetings to the Turkish Cypriot people and underlined his party’s sensitivity to the presence and rights of the Turkish community on the island.

Destici said that ensuring the security, peace, and prosperity of the Turkish Cypriot people was both a priority and a responsibility for his party. He added that the BBP supported all investments made in the TRNC, always stood by its side, and made it a point to visit on every important occasion.

Pointing to the rhetoric of “peace and coexistence” often used by international actors, Destici called for greater recognition of the importance of the Turkish presence in Cyprus. He warned of growing military preparations in the south, emphasizing the need to closely monitor which countries are involved and what they are planning.

Highlighting the increasing militarisation in the south, Destici said a new military architecture was being established with dangerous implications. He noted that the United States, by lifting its arms embargo, along with other countries, was providing modern weaponry to the Greek Cypriot side. Israel, too, was actively contributing to strengthening the south militarily, he added.

“We view these military investments as part of an attempt to encircle this region,” Destici said, adding that such moves aimed at excluding Turkey’s guarantor role. He further criticised the United Kingdom, another guarantor power, for siding with the Greek Cypriot administration instead of remaining neutral.

Against these developments, Destici stressed the need for the TRNC and Turkey to maintain unity and solidarity indefinitely. He described the attempts to isolate the TRNC while the south was arming itself as “unacceptable,” and voiced his full support for the TRNC to defend its rights, strengthen its military infrastructure, and develop its statehood with the backing of Turkey.

“The partnership and unity between Turkey and the TRNC must never be shaken,” Destici declared, underlining that Turkey’s guarantor role was vital for the TRNC to continue its path as an independent state.

Rejecting a federal solution, Destici argued that a two-state settlement was the only viable option for the island’s future. “What matters is the state and independence,” he said, pledging that his party, together with Turkey, would continue to support the two-state policy as the path to peace, security, and stability on the island.

He also accused the Greek Cypriot side and certain foreign actors of working to undermine the rights and interests of the TRNC in the region. “We will continue, in unity, to protect the rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriot people,” he concluded.

During his visit, Destici also held meetings and conducted a series of contacts with local officials in the TRNC.