Date Added: 10 January 2025

Turkish Minister of National Defence, Yaşar Güler, stressed that the only definitive solution to the Cyprus problem was to act based on the reality of two separate states and two separate peoples on the island.

Minister Güler also reiterated their commitment to supporting the legitimate interests of the Turkish Cypriots under all circumstances and to doing everything necessary for the peace, security, and prosperity of the island in line with the guarantee and alliance agreements.

“Cyprus is our national cause” Güler stressed.

Turkish Minister of National Defence, Yaşar Güler, shared his evaluations aboard the Turkish Republic ship “Salihreis” while observing the “Blue Homeland 2025” Exercise.

Stressing the desire to see the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea as regions of stability and prosperity, Minister Güler noted that this vision would greatly benefit both Türkiye and Greece.

Highlighting the Blue Homeland concept as a reflection of Türkiye’s determination to defend its maritime rights and interests within the framework of international law, he stated, “While striving for a peaceful solution, we particularly stress that we will never compromise on our national rights and interests.”

Touching upon the Cyprus issue, Güler reiterated that, as has started to be openly acknowledged in the international community, the only definitive solution lies in acting based on the reality of two separate states and two separate peoples on the island.

Calling on counterparts to abandon outdated and expired rhetoric from 50 years ago that is inconsistent with historical and current realities and approach the matter reasonably and rationally, Güler noted that the Greek Cypriot Administration was attempting to exploit the crisis environment in the Middle East, engaging in destabilizing activities under the guise of humanitarian aid and pursuing militarization efforts aimed at disrupting the balance of power on the island, all of which are being closely monitored, with necessary measures being taken in response.

He also added that they were aware of the stances of certain allies that embolden the Greek Cypriot Administration’s negative attitudes, stressing that such approaches are incompatible with the spirit of alliance.

Reaffirming that Cyprus was a national cause for Türkiye, Güler stressed, “In this regard, we will continue to support the legitimate interests of the Turkish Cypriots under all circumstances and do everything in our power for the peace, security, and prosperity of the island in line with guarantee and alliance agreements.”