President Ersin Tatar has returned to the TRNC after completing his engagements in Istanbul.

While attending the 50th anniversary event of the Peace Operation at Istanbul Topkapı University, Tatar emphasized the necessity of Türkiye’s guarantorship and military presence for maintaining peace on the island.

In his speech at the event, President Tatar highlighted that “sovereignty” is the key to resolving the Cyprus issue.

The event, titled “The Mark of Turkish Cypriots: Cyprus Peace Operation,” was organized by the Turkish Women Academicians Association and attended by President Ersin Tatar and First Lady Sibel Tatar.

The program also featured a video prepared by the TRNC Presidency that narrated the Turkish Cypriots’ struggle for existence and the introduction of the book “In the Witness of History: Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.”

During his speech, President Tatar stressed that Türkiye’s guarantorship and military presence are essential for the continuation of peace, tranquillity, and stability on the island.

He stated that Türkiye, as a guarantor country and the largest state in the Eastern Mediterranean, has a stake in the Cyprus issue and that the Turkish Cypriots protect the rights and interests of both their community and Türkiye.

Tatar underscored that “sovereignty” is crucial for the resolution of the Cyprus problem.

He referred to the period following Britain’s unilateral annexation of the island, noting that Britain secured “sovereign base” rights in Cyprus, selecting regions that allowed access to the Eastern Mediterranean.

These bases now enable Britain to undertake various actions in these areas.

Responding to the Greek Defence Minister’s remarks that they wanted peace in Cyprus but without Türkiye’s involvement, Tatar retorted, “Is it your place to say that? Türkiye is a party.

Of course, Türkiye’s word will matter.”

He also emphasized the significance of the current two-state policy.

President Tatar stated that the TRNC is an expression of the honour and freedom of the Turkish Cypriots and that negotiations can continue only with the acceptance of the Turkish Cypriots’ inherent sovereign rights.

He suggested that significant beneficial work could be accomplished through cooperation between the two states.

Tatar remarked that the Turkish military came to the island to protect the life and property of Turkish Cypriots, and now, with its maritime and airspace, the TRNC stands in a different position.

He indicated that as the southernmost Turkish state, the TRNC could significantly contribute to the Turkish world.

First Lady Sibel Tatar, also spoke at the event.

She emphasized the importance of incorporating the process into education to better explain it to children in their language and teaching Turkish Cypriot culture.

Following the speeches, President Ersin Tatar was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Istanbul Topkapı University.