Minister of Foreign Affairs Ertuğruloğlu Addresses Audience in Trabzon
Minister of Foreign Affairs Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu Affirms Turkey’s Presence on Cyprus
In a recent speech at a conference titled “Cyprus in the Context of International Law on the 50th Anniversary of the 20 July Happy Peace Operation,” Minister of Foreign Affairs Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu emphasized Turkey’s significant presence on the Island of Cyprus. He stated that not only the Turkish military but Turkey in all its aspects is currently on the island and will continue to be there, as it rightfully belongs to Turkey.
Ertuğruloğlu highlighted the strategic importance of Cyprus due to its geographical location, where the interests of major countries and organizations intersect. He noted that various global actors, including the United States, Russia, China, Israel, Arab countries, and the European Union, have stakes in the region, making it a crucial geopolitical area with energy resources and trade routes.
The Minister also addressed the ongoing efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue, pointing out the challenges faced and the establishment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). He emphasized that the Western world’s main concern is to remove Turkey from Cyprus, as they cannot accept Turkey’s influence on the island.
Furthermore, Ertuğruloğlu criticized the European Union for its biased stance on the Cyprus problem, stating that the organization has taken sides rather than serving as a neutral mediator. He stressed the importance of preserving the rights, law, interests, and security of the Turkish nation on the island, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots.
In conclusion, Minister Ertuğruloğlu asserted that Cyprus has historical ties to the Ottoman Empire and remains a Turkish island. He rejected the possibility of establishing a new partnership through negotiations, emphasizing that the island belongs to both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. The conference, attended by various officials, concluded with a question and answer session, shedding light on the complex dynamics surrounding Cyprus and its future.
