Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan has underlined the need for equalizing the statuses of both parties for a fair, permanent, and sustainable solution in Cyprus.

Speaking during the presentation of the Ministry’s budget for the year 2024, Minister Fidan highlighted that any negotiations to be carried out in Cyprus should take place between the two states on the island.

As he was briefing about his ministry’s work at the Planning and Budget Committee, the Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan touched upon and Cyprus issue and the latest developments in the Eastern Mediterranean.

He noted that it has been 60 years since the Cyprus problem first emerged and emphasized the necessity of equalizing the statuses of both parties for a fair, permanent, and sustainable solution.

“The key to resolving the Cyprus issue on the basis of the realities on the island is the recognition of the inherent rights of the Turkish Cypriot people, which include sovereign equality and equal international status. If there is to be negotiations, it will be between two states, and the status of both parties will be equalized before sitting at the negotiating table,” he said.

Minister Fidan also underscored Türkiye’s commitment to safeguarding its rights and interests in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.

He expressed the desire to advance relations with Greece through a sincere and constructive dialogue based on a positive agenda.