Akansoy: “It Is Crucial That the Organization of Turkic States Avoid a Divisive Stance on Cyprus”

Akansoy noted that Article 2 of the declaration directly concerns Cyprus and clearly reflects the OTS’s stance on the issue. “It is crucial that the Organization of Turkic States, without adopting a divisive stance on the Cyprus issue, calls for a solution based on existing realities and negotiations,” he said.

Highlighting that the article emphasizes a settlement process “based on current realities, negotiations, and one that is mutually acceptable and implementable,” Akansoy added, “Within the framework of international law, each of these expressions has concrete meaning. These references make it clear that the current situation on the island must change, that the status quo is unsustainable, and that lack of a solution cannot be considered a solution. Furthermore, alongside the principle of equality, the expression ‘inherent rights,’ which we also use locally, cannot be grounded in a non-legal international reference at such an important platform.”

He continued:
“It is extremely important that the Organization of Turkic States refrains from adopting a divisive position on the Cyprus issue and does not engage in adventurous rhetoric. Likewise, while supporting the Turkish Cypriot people, it must carefully take into account the UN Security Council resolutions — that is, international law.

Therefore, the text is very clear; its approach is transparent and consistent. What matters most is to approach this final declaration with prudence, without turning it into a propaganda tool.”

Article 2 of the Gabala Declaration:
“They emphasized the need to find a solution to the Cyprus issue based on the current realities on the island, through negotiation, and one that is mutually acceptable and implementable. They expressed their support for the efforts of the Turkish Cypriot people, an integral part of the Turkic world, to achieve their equal and inherent rights.”