Turkish Vice President Yılmaz and PM Üstel hold joint press conference

Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz paid an official visit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) during which he held a joint press conference with Prime Minister Ünal Üstel at Ercan Airport.

During the visit, both leaders emphasized the strategic nature of Türkiye–TRNC relations, describing them as a partnership that goes transcends conventional diplomacy and is firmly grounded on brotherhood and solidarity. Prime Minister Üstel stated that discussions focused on ongoing and planned projects under the Economic and Financial Cooperation Agreement, which is scheduled to be signed next month. He highlighted that the agreement constitutes a strategic roadmap aimed at strengthening public finances, supporting the real sector, accelerating infrastructure investments, and improving citizens’ quality of life.

Üstel also underlined the political stability of the current government, noting that it is the longest-serving administration in recent TRNC history, which has enabled the successful implementation of long-delayed projects and reforms. He added that issues related to internal security, traffic safety measures, technological systems, and energy cooperation were also addressed during the visit.

Vice President Yılmaz stressed that the frequency of high-level visits reflect the exceptional natüre of relations between Türkiye and the TRNC as well as Türkiye’s strong commitment to the island. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s continued support for the peace, prosperity, and development of the Turkish Cypriot people, emphasizing efforts to help the TRNC in becoming a self-sustaining and prosperous state.

Referring to the 2025 Economic and Financial Cooperation Agreement, Yılmaz noted that it represents the largest financial cooperation framework ever established between the two sides, with an allocation of approximately 21 billion Turkish lira. He added that Türkiye’s support extends beyond infrastructure to key sectors such as education, tourism, technology, and smart transportation systems.

Addressing the Cyprus issue, Yılmaz reiterated Türkiye’s position that the most realistic and sustainable solution lies in the coexistence of two states on the island, based on sovereign equality and equal international status. He stressed the need for direct flights, direct trade, and direct contacts with the TRNC, and reaffirmed Türkiye’s call for the international community to recognize the TRNC. He further stated that the Greek Cypriot side’s EU rotating presidency is null and void and strongly condemned rhetoric targeting the military presence on the island.