Parliament Completes Today’s Session; Next Meeting Scheduled for May 5 at New Building – BRTK
Conclusion of Sessions at the Republic Assembly: Focus on Economic and Political Concerns
The latest session of the Cumhuriyet Meclisi (Republic Assembly) General Assembly concluded recently, focused on the current economic and political challenges facing the region. The next meeting is scheduled for May 5, in the new Assembly building.
Acknowledgments and Key Discussions
Assembly President Ziya Öztürkler expressed gratitude to the assembly staff and wished them success in their ongoing work. The discussions covered various pressing topics, including the current economic climate and political tensions.
CTP (Republican Turkish Party) deputy Teberrüken Uluçay addressed the assembly, emphasizing the profound impact of both local and global economic issues. He highlighted the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly citing the trade wars initiated post-Trump in the United States and their ripple effects on both developed and developing economies.
Uluçay pointed out, “We find ourselves in a situation where, despite numerous internal political issues, we must also stay informed about global developments.”
Concerns Over Economic Policies
Discussing Turkey’s economic situation, Uluçay noted significant changes, including a rate hike by the Central Bank of Turkey from 42% to 49%. He expressed concerns about sports embargoes affecting youth motivation and urged for the engagement of Turkish Cypriots in international sports under their identity.
He also referenced recent discussions involving foreign ministers concerning the Cyprus issue, emphasizing the importance of addressing local economic conditions and the need for rational management of resources to combat rising inflation.
Legislative Transition and Critiques
CTP deputy Sami Özuslu spoke on “Recent Political Developments,” critiquing the ongoing talks regarding "Confidence-Building Measures." He lamented a perceived lack of progress between the two communities on the island and raised concerns about recent announcements regarding the potential opening of Turkish ports to Greek Cypriot vessels.
Özuslu challenged the efficacy of current political measures, stating, “The negotiations are not moving forward, and the issues impacting our people persist.”
In response to these critiques, Interior Minister Dursun Oğuz stressed that the Cyprus issue involves strategic cooperation with Turkey, asserting that the Republic of Cyprus has never treated Turkish Cypriots as equals.
Future Outlook and Legislative Responsibilities
As the assembly prepares for its transition to a new building, members acknowledge the significance of this change in the long-term context of the Republic. Many deputies reflected on their pride in the institution’s history and its foundational role in Turkish Cypriot society.
Finally, UBP (National Unity Party) deputy Sunat Atun echoed the sentiments regarding the closure of an era in the old assembly building and expressed hopes for a future focused on visionary policies that will benefit all citizens.
The assembly will reconvene on May 5 in the new building, marking a pivotal moment in its ongoing legislative journey.
