Prime Minister Ünal Üstel who was in Istanbul to convey his condolences and support has returned to the Republic.

Speaking at Ercan airport, Prime Minister Üstel said that Türkiye will continue to stand by the people of the TRNC. “

“We will recover from this disaster together as one nation,” Üstel added.

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel who was in Istanbul along with President Ersin Tatar to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and convey the TRNC’s condolences and support returned to the island last night.

Speaking to reporters, Üstel said that he had found the opportunity to exchange views with Turkish experts on preparing for a possible earthquake.

“It is our obligation and responsibility towards the people. The state must ensure the safety of its citizens. This is the state’s duty. We are doing ours,” he said.

The prime minister said that the Turkish President had made it clear that Türkiye’s support to the Turkish Cypriot people will continue at all costs.

Üstel said that he had met with Prof. Dr Naci Görür and Prof Dr Ziyadin Çakır, both renowned geologists to discuss measures and risks concerning the earthquake.

The prime minister said that the government had begun inspecting and testing the condition of public buildings such as schools.

“It is imperative that we work swiftly. We have taken necessary steps for creating additional funds. The sooner we complete the work the more ready we will be for an earthquake,” he stressed.

Üstel pointed out that once the country is prepared there will be nothing to fear of an earthquake even if it’s of a strong magnitude.

“All of our meetings with experts have revealed that the general quality of buildings in Cyprus are in good condition and can withstand powerful earthquakes. We shall be carrying out inspections for buildings which pose a risk,” the prime minister added.