Tatar: TCs will never accept an agreement that doesn’t recognize their sovereignty
President Ersin Tatar has once again emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot people will never accept an agreement that does not recognize their sovereign rights.
He stated that they will not enter into negotiations under pressure and reiterated that this stance will be clearly conveyed at the informal meeting set to take place in Geneva next month.
During a meeting with students from the Faculty of Political Sciences at Girne American University (GAU), President Tatar provided insights into the Cyprus issue and the status of the TRNC. The session also featured presentations by Presidential Chief of Staff Çağın Zort, who explained the functioning of the Presidency, and Presidential Special Advisor on International Relations and Diplomacy Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Işıksal, who outlined recent developments and the policies pursued by the Presidency.
Highlighting the ongoing global conflicts, Tatar underscored the importance of sustainable peace in Cyprus. He stated that the island has remained peaceful since 1974, attributing this to the presence of Turkish troops and the division of communities into their respective regions.
Tatar stressed that the Turkish Cypriots have long fought for their sovereignty, yet the international community continues to recognize the Greek Cypriot side as the sole representative of the island, which he deemed unacceptable.
He reaffirmed Türkiye’s role as a guarantor power, ensuring the protection of Turkish Cypriots, and warned that history could repeat itself if necessary precautions are not taken.
Addressing issues of identity and culture, Tatar emphasized that Turkish Cypriots have their own language, religion, and traditions that must be respected, yet the Greek Cypriot side has failed to demonstrate such respect.
He reiterated that the Turkish Cypriot people would never be reduced to a minority status and that the TRNC’s new political approach has been more effective in conveying this stance to the international community.
Tatar stressed the importance of cooperation between the two sides, particularly in areas such as disaster response, judicial matters, and cultural heritage.
He also highlighted the opportunities available in the TRNC, pointing to the island’s natural beauty and strong educational sector, which provides significant advantages for students.
With students from 144 different countries studying in the TRNC, Tatar noted that this diverse environment allows young people to share their own values while learning about new cultures.
He also emphasized the importance of correctly interpreting and utilizing information in the digital age.
Following his speech, President Tatar answered questions from students from Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom. brt
