Contacts of TRNC-Türkiye Parliamentary Friendship Group in Ankara

Members of the Republic’s Assembly Friendship Group paid a visit to Ankara where they held talks with the European Union Harmonization Commission of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (GNAT) to exchange views on bilateral relations and regional issues.

According to a statement from the Republic’s Assembly, the delegation met with the  Chair of the commission, Burhan Kayatürk, together with other commission members. Discussions focused on relations between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Türkiye, recent developments regarding the Cyprus issue, the European Union process, interparliamentary cooperation and the latest developments in the Middle East.

The meeting was attended by TRNC–Türkiye Interparliamentary Friendship Group Chair and National Unity Party MP Resmiye Eroğlu Canaltay, Deputy Chair Republican Turkish Party MP Erkut Şahali, as well as members Republican Turkish Party MP Filiz Besim, National Unity Party MP Fırtına Karanfil and Rebirth Party MP Talip Atalay. TRNC Ambassador to Ankara İsmet Korukoğlu was also present.

Speaking during the meeting, GNAT EU Harmonization Commission Chair Burhan Kayatürk criticised the Greek Cypriot Administration for using its EU membership to portray itself as the only legitimate authority on the island, describing this situation as a serious injustice. He also highlighted the significance of continued contacts between the Turkish Parliament and the Republic’s Assembly in strengthening the TRNC’s international position.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Resmiye Eroğlu Canaltay expressed satisfaction at being in the GNAT and thanked Turkish officials for their warm hospitality, noting that the strong ties between Türkiye and the TRNC continue to be reinforced through parliamentary dialogue and reciprocal visits. Canaltay added that Türkiye’s support provides confidence and strength to Turkish Cypriots, particularly at a time of increasing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.