President Ersin Tatar emphasized the historical and strategic significance of the 1974 Peace Operation, describing it as a critical step for maintaining a balanced relationship between Türkiye and Greece.

During a meeting with a delegation from Türkiye’s New Welfare  Party, led by Deputy Chairman Mehmet Altınöz, President Tatar underlined the importance of continuing the national cause in harmony with Türkiye.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, President Tatar highlighted the vital role of strengthening relations with Türkiye and reiterated that the 1974 Peace Operation holds a significant place in the history of Turkish Cypriots.

He paid tribute to the late Bülent Ecevit and Necmettin Erbakan for their leadership in launching the operation.

President Tatar reaffirmed his commitment to a new political vision based on two sovereign and equal states, noting that federation negotiations had failed to yield results.

He emphasized Türkiye’s unwavering support for this new policy direction.

Referring to the 2017 Crans-Montana talks, Tatar criticized the Greek Cypriot side for abandoning the negotiation table with demands for “zero troops and zero guarantees,” calling such a stance unacceptable.

Tatar stressed that Türkiye’s role as a guarantor power and the presence of Turkish troops on the island are non-negotiable.

He expressed satisfaction with the growing strength of relations with Türkiye and reiterated the importance of its continued support and collaboration.

New Welfare Party Deputy Chairman Mehmet Altınöz, for his part, emphasized the significance of Türkiye-TRNC cooperation and expressed hopes for further development of these ties.