Ayşe Güneş Speaks to Ayata TAK about the Peace Operation’s Key Slogan
Academician and Author Prof. Dr. Ayşe Güneş Ayata, known for being the symbol of the Peace Operation in Cyprus, recently shared her thoughts on the 50th anniversary of the event. In an interview with the Turkish Agency Cyprus (TAK), Ayata expressed her pride in the slogan “Ayşe should go on vacation” that became synonymous with the operation.
Ayata emphasized that she is not the hero of the operation but rather its symbol. She acknowledged the role of her father, Turan Güneş, former Turkish Foreign Minister, and Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit, as well as the Turkish Armed Forces, in the success of the Peace Operation.
The story behind the slogan “Ayşe should go on vacation” dates back to 1974 when Ayata, then a 19-year-old university student, unknowingly became the password for the second phase of the operation. Her father, Turan Güneş, used her holiday request as a signal to initiate the operation, which was shared with Prime Minister Ecevit.
Ayata recalled the moment when she realized her name was used as the password and the excitement that followed during their arrival in Cyprus. She also shared an unforgettable memory of a honeymoon in Cyprus, hosted by the late President Rauf Denktaş.
As a retired academic from Middle East Technical University (METU), Ayata highlighted the significance of the connection between Cyprus and METU. She expressed her reluctance to discuss the issue every year as she believes it is a symbol she wants to preserve for her daughter and future generations.
Reflecting on her father’s legacy and contributions to Turkish political life, Ayata expressed her pride in being associated with such a respected figure. She emphasized the importance of respecting and caring for the memory of the Peace Operation in Cyprus, as a tribute to her late father and mother.
Overall, Ayşe Güneş Ayata’s insights shed light on the personal significance and historical impact of the Peace Operation in Cyprus, highlighting the enduring legacy of her father and the role he played in Turkish politics.
