Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler highlighted the critical role of the Turkish Peace Forces stationed in Cyprus since 1974, emphasizing their importance for both Turkish and Greek Cypriots’ peace and security.
In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Güler stated, “Defining Türkiye’s military presence on the island in any other way or making provocative statements on this matter will not benefit the Greek Cypriot side. The absence of bloodshed and tears on the island for half a century is thanks to the presence of the Turkish Peace Forces there.”
Türkiye’s Defence Minister Yaşar Güler underscored that the military operation conducted by the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) in 1974 brought an end to the injustices and oppressions faced by Turkish Cypriots for years, fulfilling their rightful demands and bringing peace, tranquillity, and security to both Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities on the island.
He pointed out that the operation holds a unique place as the most comprehensive operation of the TSK’s joint elements in the history of the Republic, carried out with great success.
Güler reiterated that the Turkish Peace Forces, stationed on the island since 1974, is a guarantor of peace and security for both sides.
“Provocative steps by the Greek Cypriot side and military aid from third countries only serve to perpetuate the lack of a solution. The long-standing and outdated rhetoric does not and will not contribute to efforts towards a resolution,” he said.
The Turkish Minister emphasized that the only definitive solution on the island is to recognize the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people.
“The reality is that there are two separate peoples and two separate states on the island today. Negotiations for resolving the Cyprus issue and the desired goal must be built on this reality. With this understanding, Türkiye believes it is time to negotiate a two-state solution, recognize the sovereign equality of the Turkish Cypriot people, and recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC),” he said.
Touching upon the upcoming celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the 20 July operation, Güler announced that various activities are planned to commemorate the day, which brought peace and tranquillity to the entire island.
He emphasized that the Cyprus issue is not a problem but a national cause.
Güler highlighted the strategic importance of Cyprus, not only for the island but also for the overall security and stability in the Mediterranean, which is going through a sensitive period.
The Minister criticized the Greek Cypriot Administration for acting as the sole representative of the island and deploying foreign military forces without the TRNC’s consent, violating the 1960 Agreements.