President Ersin Tatar said that the Turkish Cypriot people had eventually achieved statehood after having to endure many years of suffering.

He said that Turkish Cypriots continue to progress with a stronger state today.

Tatar was speaking at a Republic Day ball organised by the Council of Turkish Cypriot Associations (CTCA) in London.

Addressing guests at the event held at the Grand Palace, President Ersin Tatar said that the TRNC, with the support of the Republic of Türkiye in the new century, will continue to exist and grow as a Turkish state in the Eastern Mediterranean, ensuring peace and stability.

He emphasized that over the 40 years since its declaration the TRNC has solidified and strengthened, achieving this despite the international isolation and embargoes it has been subjected to.

Applauding the love for the TRNC in London and asserting that they will continue to develop despite obstacles as long as they remain united, Tatar mentioned that those who currently call for negotiations for an agreement in Cyprus are going door-to-door complaining and working to hinder the progress.

“They are calling us to be condemned to a settlement we do not want, but we will continue on this honourable path, without giving up independence and freedom, based on a solution through cooperation between two states,” he said.

Tatar mentioned the support of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the opening of the fenced-off town of Maraş, the proposal for a two-state solution, and the development of a new policy.

He emphasized that he does not want the Turkish Armed Forces to ever leave the island.

Asserting that the Turkish Cypriots do not have to accept a settlement that does not suit their interests, Tatar explained that the TRNC has thrived for the past 40 years and gained international acceptance with the support of the Republic of Türkiye.

Regarding voting rights for citizens residing in the UK, Tatar mentioned ongoing efforts in the parliament and expressed confidence that political parties would support this initiative.

Tatar congratulated the administrators, teachers, families, and students of London schools, promising maximum effort to support their endeavours.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the state, Tatar touched upon his diplomatic activities in the UK, stating that he strives to establish contact with members of parliament, the business community, the press, and various segments to convey the voice and demands of the Turkish Cypriot people.

Tatar criticized the UK’s role in Cyprus, noting that despite promises made to the Turkish Cypriot people in the 1960 Republic of Cyprus based on equality, the UK watched silently during massacres and the expulsion of Turkish Cypriots from the state.

He urged the UK to reconsider its Cyprus policy.

In conclusion, Tatar stated that they will continue the struggle and move forward to the future with hope and strength, united as one.

After the speeches, students from Dr. Fazıl Küçük Turkish School presented a folk dance performance.