Image Credits: Anadolu Ajansı
Greek Cypriots’ refusal to acknowledge the presence and rights of Turkish Cypriots is the primary impediment to resolving the Cyprus issue, Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler stated Thursday. Addressing a gathering in Ankara on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Armed Forces Day, Güler emphasized that the Cyprus problem extends beyond military and security concerns, involving complex political, diplomatic, and demographic dimensions.
Güler highlighted Turkey’s consistent and pragmatic approach, aimed at safeguarding the rights of both communities and fostering a peaceful resolution. Despite Turkey’s constructive engagement with international proposals, Güler lamented that efforts have yet to yield positive outcomes. He criticized the persistent use of outdated and factually inaccurate rhetoric that hinders progress toward a resolution.
The minister reiterated Türkiye’s support for a two-state solution, which is also backed by impartial analysts. Türkiye continues to advocate for increased international recognition of the TRNC and its integration into global organizations. The recent reception in Ankara was attended by ambassadors from Azerbaijan, Gambia, and Taiwan, alongside senior military officials and press representatives.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s military intervention in response to a coup aimed at uniting the island with Greece. This intervention led to the establishment of the TRNC on November 15, 1983. The island’s division has persisted despite various peace initiatives, including a failed 2017 summit in Switzerland involving Turkey, Greece, and the U.K. The Greek Cypriot administration admitted itself to the European Union in 2004 and blocked a U.N. plan to resolve the dispute the same year, leading to full EU benefits being enjoyed only in the Greek Cypriot south.
Recent U.N.-backed reunification talks collapsed in 2017, leaving efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue stalled. Güler’s remarks underscore Turkey’s continued commitment to a resolution and its push for a renewed focus on the two-state solution.