"The international community should recognise the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and establish diplomatic, political, and economic relations with this state. This should take place as soon as possible." This statement was made by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during his visit to the island of Cyprus. BTA announced the news according to TRT Haber's report.
Erdoğan visited the Mediterranean island yesterday to commemorate the 51st anniversary of Türkiye's military operation in Cyprus in 1974. This date is commemorated as the "Day of Peace and Freedom" for Ankara and Turkish Cypriots. Erdoğan met with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar and participated in numerous events during his visit for the anniversary.
Erdoğan said, "Turkish Cypriots do not have another 60 years to lose. We fully support the resolution of the Cyprus issue through the establishment of two separate states."
At the same time, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar stated that the intervention "brought peace and tranquility to the island after the darkest days for Turkish Cypriots," and emphasised that "thanks to Türkiye's continuous support, Turkish Cypriots are not alone."
The island of Cyprus was divided into two after the Turkish army's operation in response to a coup by Greek nationalists in 1974. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was established in the northern region of the island in 1983; however, only Ankara recognised this entity. The island is a major point of contention between NATO allies Greece and Türkiye.
While the Greek Administration of Southern Cyprus and Greece are committed to achieving a resolution through a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, as outlined in the UN Security Council resolutions, the Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye have tended to advocate for a two-state solution.