Tatar: We Will Establish a “Sister Markets Network” with Turkic States

Opening his speech, Tatar greeted supporters and alliance members, emphasizing unity across political and social lines: “Regardless of political views or background, whether you vote for me or not, I embrace all citizens as their President. Every individual in this country is valuable,” he said.

Tatar criticized the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) and its presidential candidate for questioning his active engagement with citizens. “The President is elected by the people. Why should it be an issue that I meet and listen to citizens?” he asked. He also dismissed promises by the CTP candidate to coordinate with Turkey, calling such statements too late to address the TRNC’s needs.

Highlighting past negotiations, including the Annan Plan and the 2017 Crans Montana talks, Tatar stressed that Greek Cypriot intransigence left Turkish Cypriots without gains. He asserted that a solution acceptable to the Turkish Cypriot community is impossible without Turkey’s guarantees and military support.

From Outdated Negotiations to Proactive Diplomacy

Tatar described his approach as a shift from exhausted and unproductive talks to active policy engagement: “We have closed the chapter on outdated negotiations that served only Greek Cypriot interests. Proactive diplomacy means pursuing bold policies across all sectors — transport, communication, agriculture, education, tourism, production, and the economy — in partnership with Turkey and the Turkic world to deliver tangible benefits for our people.”

Sister Markets Network

He detailed the network initiative: “Our ‘Sister Markets Network’ with TSO countries will strengthen trade and cooperation for our producers, farmers, tourism operators, and universities within the Turkic world. It means more opportunities and gains for the people of Lefke. While we pursue concrete projects, others rely on empty rhetoric.”

Concerns Over Greek Cypriot Militarization

Tatar warned of continued Greek Cypriot armament, reporting over $3.5 billion spent on weapons and missiles in the last five years. He also noted the rise of the far-right ELAM party ahead of the May 2026 Greek Cypriot elections.

Concluding his address, Tatar called on voters to take control of their destiny: “We will not accept taught helplessness. As the TRNC and Turkish Cypriots, we will reclaim our rights. On election day, the choice is clear: leave our future to others or determine it ourselves.”