Spokesman for Türkiye’s ruling AK Party (AKP) Ömer Çelik has also voiced strong criticism of the recent military cooperation agreement between the United States and South Cyprus, warning that the move would heighten tensions on the island and provoke further instability.

Çelik also underscored Türkiye’s unwavering support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and condemned the Greek Cypriot administration for its refusal to engage in equitable, solution-oriented dialogue.

He also expressed concern over the potential impact of the agreement on Türkiye’s relationship with the US, calling it a reckless decision that undermines efforts for peace in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Speaking at a press conference at the AK Party headquarters, Çelik emphasized that Türkiye’s solidarity with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) would remain steadfast, regardless of any developments.

Referring to the US decision in 2020 to lift the arms embargo on South Cyprus, Çelik reiterated his previous concerns, noting that the root cause of instability and deadlock on the island is the Greek Cypriot administration. He emphasized that the Greek Cypriot side consistently ignores the rights of the TRNC and Turkish Cypriots, and is solely responsible for blocking any progress toward a fair solution based on equality between the two communities.

“Their maximalist demands, which disregard the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot people, are unlawful and counterproductive,” Çelik said. “When the arms embargo was lifted, I pointed out that this would only encourage the Greek Cypriot administration’s unlawful and unsolvable stance, rather than contributing to peace or a solution.”

He went on to criticize the recent military cooperation agreement, stating that it would further escalate tensions and embolden the Greek Cypriot side. “This agreement is an extremely irresponsible move, which will only exacerbate the problems on the island and provoke the Greek Cypriots. It is also troubling for Türkiye’s alliance with the U.S.”

Highlighting the increasing militarization of the Eastern Mediterranean, Çelik said, “The Mediterranean is now filled with warships to the point that even small boats struggle to navigate. Instead of promoting stability and dialogue, this approach only encourages illegality and perpetuates deadlock.”

Çelik concluded by reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to the TRNC, stating, “As President Erdoğan has frequently emphasized, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot people will never be left alone. Türkiye will continue its historic solidarity with the TRNC in the strongest possible manner.”