Prime Minister Ünal Üstel held a meeting with Türkiye’s Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz in Ankara to review and prioritize projects under the 2024 Economic and Financial Cooperation Agreement.

The meeting took place at the Presidential Complex and was followed by a joint press conference where both leaders made statements about their discussions and the future of Turkish-TRNC relations.

Speaking at the joint press conference on Thursday, Prime Minister Üstel emphasized the productivity and constructive nature of the meeting, highlighting the strong political stability essential for a promising future.

He stated, “As always, today we had a very productive, constructive, and result-oriented meeting. During our government’s tenure, our cooperation with the Turkish government has led to significant projects that meet our people’s crucial needs. Some of these projects have been completed, some initiated, and others are nearing completion. Major investments such as the new Ercan Airport, the water project connecting our plains to the Anatolian water supply, and the upcoming electricity project through cables are concrete examples of this cooperation.”

Üstel also criticized the recent actions of the Greek Cypriot administration, accusing them of human rights violations through arrests and suppression tactics.

He condemned their attempts to intimidate the Turkish Cypriot community and destabilize its economy, affirming that such efforts would not succeed.

Turkish Vice President Yılmaz for his part highlighted the importance of ongoing economic and political stability in both Türkiye and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

He stressed the positive impact of Türkiye’s coordinated program on the TRNC and the plans to support agricultural production by connecting fertile plains to water resources from Anatolia.

Yılmaz assured continued cooperation in various sectors including industry, tourism, infrastructure, health, education, and transportation to enhance the TRNC’s prosperity.

He also expressed readiness to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in Northern Cyprus, ensuring that residents benefit from improved and expanded services in health and education.

“We reviewed various topics today to ensure that people in Northern Cyprus can benefit more and better from these services,” Yılmaz said, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Üstel and his government for their efforts.

Reflecting on the significance of political stability, Yılmaz noted, “Where there is political stability and trust, there is economic stability and prosperity. Therefore, we believe that political stability should continue in both Türkiye and Northern Cyprus. We hope the regulations we implement will benefit our bilateral relations and our region.”

Yılmaz also mentioned the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Turkish Peace Operation on July 20, promising a grand commemoration.

He expressed optimism for the TRNC’s continued growth despite external pressures and sanctions.

Furthermore, Yılmaz highlighted the importance of the upcoming meeting in Shusha, Azerbaijan, where President Ersin Tatar will participate, further strengthening ties between the Turkish World and Northern Cyprus.

He concluded, “We will continue to stand by Northern Cyprus in all areas. We sincerely believe that the Century of Türkiye will also be the Century of Northern Cyprus.”

The leaders’ discussions underscored the enduring partnership and mutual commitment to development and stability in the region.