President Ersin Tatar has stressed that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) holds immense value in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly due to its strategic position in maritime trade, energy resources, and transportation.
He highlighted that the security of the TRNC is ensured through the support and capabilities of Türkiye, noting the ongoing collaborative efforts with Türkiye to safeguard the region’s interests.
Tatar’s words came during a key address at the “Strategic Importance of the Eastern Mediterranean” symposium, held at Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU).
During his speech, President Ersin Tatar pointed out that the TRNC’s presence in the Eastern Mediterranean is not only a national asset but a crucial factor in the region’s stability. He also reiterated that the TRNC’s sovereignty claims are legitimate, especially given the island’s complex historical background. The president stressed that maintaining the TRNC’s territorial integrity is of utmost importance for the future of both the island and the wider region.
He also underlined the significance of the TRNC’s contribution to the region’s prosperity, mentioning ongoing efforts aligned with Türkiye to ensure the protection of maritime zones and resources.
Speaking on the need for a two-state solution to the Cyprus issue, Tatar firmly stated that any other approach is unacceptable.
The symposium is organized in collaboration with Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), the International Federation of Academic, Social, and Economic Relations, and the International Social, Cultural, and Academic Relations Association.
It is moderated by Can Çobanoğlu, Chairman of the High Advisory Board of the Association of Bureaucrats and Businessmen. The project commission is led by Prof. Dr. Yüksel Yalova, former Minister of State of the Republic of Türkiye.
Selman Yaray, President of the International Social, Cultural, and Academic Relations Association, expressed the association’s pleasure in hosting such a significant event in the TRNC.
He emphasized their commitment to supporting peace, stability, and fair distribution in the region.
Additionally, Umut Elbir, President of the International Federation of Academic, Social, and Economic Relations, stressed the Eastern Mediterranean’s importance as a meeting point of civilizations, particularly highlighting the region’s relevance in defending Türkiye’s rights. EMU Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Osman Mübin Karatepe also contributed, noting the vital role of the Eastern Mediterranean in energy and maritime transport.