Prime Minister Ünal Üstel on Monday described the recent visit by a 200-strong delegation to Azerbaijan with the aim of promoting the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as a significant and historic development, both politically and in terms of fostering economic ties with the outside world.
Üstel on Monday addressed the press, providing an extensive overview of his contacts and visit to Baku.
He said that the visit’s primary goal was to enhance cooperation and strengthen the close bonds between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and Azerbaijan.
Pointing out that the TRNC delegation was received at the highest level by the Azerbaijani government, the Prime Minister said that the promotion event’s gala was attended by dignitaries, ministers, deputy ministers, and members of parliament, civil society representatives, and the Azerbaijani press.
“This event underscored the strong brotherhood shared between Turkish Cypriots and Azerbaijanis. The Turkish Cypriot delegation conveyed warm greetings from their people and emphasized that the “Three states, one nation” slogan is more than just words—it’s a profound shared conviction”.
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel emphasized the significance of the current diplomatic initiatives and the TRNC’s engagement with the international community.
He highlighted the pivotal role of President Ersin Tatar and the new foreign policy vision developed in collaboration with Turkey, which has yielded substantial progress over the last three years.
“This renewed foreign policy vision has been marked by notable developments, including the call by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the UN General Assembly for the recognition of the TRNC for two consecutive years. Additionally, the TRNC has secured observer member status in the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), underscoring the tangible achievements of this vision,” he said.
Üstel added that the diplomatic efforts initiated with the TRNC’s entry into the Organization of Turkic States have taken on a new dimension following President Aliyev of Azerbaijan’s statement that the flag of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus will be displayed in Turkic states and Azerbaijan.
The prime minister also said that significant discussions and meetings took place during his visit, with a focus on fostering cultural, political, and economic cooperation.
He emphasized that these aspirations are not mere wishes but concrete realities.
“The outcomes of these interactions are expected to rapidly accelerate the development of cultural, economic, and diplomatic relations. This serves as a significant step for Turkish Cypriots in their journey to engage with the world, following Türkiye,” Üstel told reporters.
He added that the formal reception of President Ersin Tatar by his Azerbaijani counterpart İlham Aliyev marked a historic moment, underscoring the depth of the bilateral relationship.
Pointing out that during his visit, he had personally conducted crucial meetings, including discussions with two Azerbaijani ministers; the prime minister said that these meetings touched upon vital subjects such as potential cooperation between universities and opportunities within the areas of culture and sports.
He also said that invitations were extended to their Azerbaijani counterparts to visit the TRNC in the near future.
“We are anticipating that Azerbaijani and Turkish Cypriot youth will soon meet in universities and sporting events, further solidifying their relations,” he said.
Üstel also said that the meetings extended beyond ministers and encompassed discussions with the top leaders and members of Azerbaijan’s ruling party.
“These conversations delved into potential political collaborations and future opportunities,” the prime minister said, underlining the necessity of strong political will to realize these joint endeavours.
He pointed out that Azerbaijani officials were cordially invited to partake in the November 15 celebrations, uniting both nations on a joyous occasion.
Prime Minister Üstel concluded by stressing the importance of shared sentiments and mutual understanding.
“The shared experiences of fighting for freedom and rejecting captivity strengthen the deep-rooted bonds between Turkish Cypriots and Azerbaijanis. The commitment to support one another and a shared vision of a brighter future underscored the unity of the Turkish people,” he said.
In closing, the Prime Minister affirmed the belief that, through unity, both nations can shape the course of the next century together.