Following the completion of the land phase of the Şehit Teğmen Caner Gönyeli 2024 Search and Rescue Exercise, President Ersin Tatar addressed the press, highlighting the exercise’s success and the vital collaboration between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and Türkiye.

Speaking to the press, he noted that the capabilities for search and rescue operations on land, sea, and air have been significantly enhanced over the years.

The exercise, conducted in memory of Lieutenant Caner Gönyeli, once again demonstrated the readiness and efficiency of the participating forces.

“Today, we have witnessed what the TRNC, in cooperation with the Republic of Türkiye, can achieve within its sovereign territory in the Eastern Mediterranean,” said Tatar.

He emphasized the importance of such exercises in safeguarding the rights and laws of the TRNC and ensuring effective search and rescue operations.                                                

President Tatar, a longtime participant in these exercises, acknowledged the advancements in equipment and technology that have bolstered search and rescue efforts.

He recalled his recent meeting with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and senior military officials, where they discussed the strategic importance of the TRNC in the region, not only in territorial terms but also in maritime and aerial domains.

Referring to recent tragedies in the Eastern Mediterranean, where migrant boats have capsized resulting in loss of life, Tatar underscored the broader humanitarian significance of robust search and rescue operations.

“Strengthening our search and rescue capabilities is crucial not only for our people but also for providing aid in international waters during such disasters,” he stated.