Turkish President Erdogan calls on the international community to recognize the two-state reality in Cyprus, marking 51 years since Türkiye’s intervention. He urges full diplomatic and economic relations with the TRNC.
During a high-profile visit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on Sunday, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye reaffirmed his government’s unwavering support for a two-state solution in Cyprus.
Marking the 51st anniversary of the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation, President Erdoğan addressed both Turkish Cypriots and the international community, stating:
“We fully support the vision based on a two-state solution. It is time for the international community to make peace with the realities on the ground.”
Cyprus: A Divided Island Since 1974
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, when Türkiye intervened militarily following a coup orchestrated by the Greek military junta in Nicosia. In 1983, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus declared independence—recognized only by Ankara.
Erdoğan’s speech, delivered in North Nicosia, emphasized the need for the world to accept this longstanding division and to move forward by recognizing the TRNC’s sovereignty.
“Diplomatic, political, and economic relations should be established with the TRNC,” he added. “The injustice endured by Turkish Cypriots for decades must finally come to an end.”
Failed Talks and the Push for New Diplomatic Ground
The last major attempt at unification talks collapsed in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, in July 2017, leaving the island’s future in diplomatic limbo. Since then, Türkiye and the TRNC have pivoted firmly toward a realistic, two-state solution, rejecting further federal-based negotiations.
President Erdoğan’s remarks signal a continued shift in regional diplomacy, underscoring Türkiye’s long-term commitment to North Cyprus and its quest for international recognition. northcyprusinvesting.com, Invetra.io