Recep Tayyip Erdogan appeared particularly provocative during his visit to occupied Northern Cyprus on the 51st anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, which he once again characterized as a “peace operation.” The Turkish president reiterated his support for a “two-state solution” to the Cyprus problem and emphasized that Turkish Cypriots have suffered injustices for decades, which is why diplomatic, political and economic contacts should begin to lift the isolation.
Erdogan stated that every project carried out in occupied territories constitutes not only infrastructure, but also a symbol of brotherhood and solidarity. He argued that Turkey is there to ensure the unity, security and tranquility of Turkish Cypriots and will continue to do so. He also noted that even if doors are closed to Turkish Cypriots, “we find new ones to open” and mentioned that those who previously presented the south’s prosperity level as an example have now fallen silent.
Erdogan from occupied territories: “We fully support Ersin Tatar’s vision for a two-state solution”
The Turkish president then emphasized: “We had to do what befits a Turk and we did it. We can do it, we brought water from Turkey under the sea. We are proud that we brought various projects, investments and plans from transportation to health, technology to education, urbanization to irrigation, agriculture to energy to the TRNC.”
At this point, Erdogan supported Ankara’s established position on Cyprus for a “two-state solution,” noting that this can be achieved with the facts that have been “shaped on the ground” and that “it is a reality that the international community must reconcile with and accept.”
The Turkish president said in detail: “We say ‘crescent moon and we are on the same path.’ We fully support Ersin Tatar’s vision for a two-state solution. It is time for the international community to reconcile with the reality on the ground. Diplomatic, political and economic relations should be established with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the injustice imposed on Turkish Cypriots for decades should end. We sincerely believe this will eventually be realized.”
