Erdoğan supports federation-based proposal for TRNC recognition
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Addresses Turkish Cypriot Rights
During a recent AK Party Parliamentary Group Meeting, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized the injustices faced by the Turkish Cypriot people. Erdoğan highlighted the fact that the Turkish Cypriot people have endured decades of discrimination, lawlessness, and injustice since the 1960s.
In his speech, Erdoğan recalled the tragic events that occurred between 1963 and 1974, stressing the importance of remembering the atrocities committed against the Turkish Cypriot people. He mentioned the massacres, forced displacement, and ethnic cleansing attempts that took place during that time, noting the lack of intervention from Western institutions and organizations.
Erdoğan credited Turkey’s Peace Operation on July 20, 1974, for putting an end to the threats against the Turkish Cypriot people and the subsequent establishment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1983. He condemned the ongoing efforts to undermine the independence of the Turkish Cypriots and criticized the unequal treatment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus compared to the Greek Cypriot side.
“We have reached a point where we need to reconsider our approach,” Erdoğan stated, expressing frustration with the lack of progress in negotiations based on federalism. He reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment as the motherland and guarantor country for the Turkish Cypriot people on the 50th anniversary of the Peace Operation.
Erdoğan’s remarks shed light on the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition of the rights of the Turkish Cypriot people. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, it remains to be seen how Erdoğan’s calls for a new approach will impact future negotiations and efforts towards a lasting resolution in Cyprus.
