Date Added: 31 December 2024

President Ersin Tatar expressed his heartfelt wishes for 2025 to bring days filled with health, hope, and peace, free from violence, war, terrorism, disasters, and accidents.

In his New Year message, he highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration in overcoming challenges while outlining his expectations for the year ahead.

Reflecting on 2024, President Tatar described it as a year of significant developments for Cyprus, including paradigm shifts and turning points in the ongoing Cyprus issue.

He recalled the October 15 meeting with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and the progress achieved during their informal discussions.

One of the key achievements, according to Tatar, was the decision to open new border crossings.

He described this as a vital step toward fostering a culture of cooperation and enhancing economic activity on both sides of the island. “The opening of new crossings will contribute to mutual economic benefits and strengthen collaboration,” he stated.

President Tatar underlined that 2025 will be a demanding year, with a strong focus on diplomacy and efforts to reach a realistic and sustainable resolution to the Cyprus issue.

He reiterated the Turkish Cypriot community’s commitment to sovereignty, equality, and fundamental human rights, asserting that the era of subjugating their future to Greek Cypriot consent has ended.

Noting shifts in the international community’s approach to Cyprus, Tatar remarked that the federation model is no longer seen as a viable solution.

He criticized the Greek Cypriot administration for escalating armament activities against Türkiye and the TRNC in 2024, affirming that necessary countermeasures have been taken with Türkiye’s support.

On the domestic front, President Tatar called for intensified efforts toward economic development.

He urged the state, government, and relevant institutions to take decisive steps without succumbing to populism. Priority areas include healthcare, education, transportation, energy, agriculture, tourism, communication, and information technology.

Concluding his message, President Tatar extended his best wishes to the Turkish Cypriot people, Türkiye, and all humanity. “May 2025 be a year of health, peace, and prosperity, free from disasters and challenges. I sincerely wish everyone a Happy New Year,” he said.