Ertuğruloğlu: “Greek Cypriot administration’s efforts to join NATO are a dream”

Minister of Foreign Affairs Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu, commented on claims that the Greek Cypriot administration is preparing to join NATO, describing the idea as “dream.”

Speaking about reports that the Greek Cypriot administration is making preparations for NATO membership, Ertuğruloğlu said, “They can keep dreaming. We see the game they are playing. Motherland Türkiye also sees it. Such an outcome is not possible.”

Ertuğruloğlu made the remarks to an Anadolu Agency correspondent on the sidelines of the International Strategic Communication Summit (STRATCOM) 2026, organized by the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications in Istanbul.

He emphasized that Türkiye’s international initiatives such as STRATCOM, which focus on combating disinformation are extremely important to them. He also noted that the TRNC is rarely invited to such events by the international community that which does not recognize its existence, therefore, Türkiye’s invitation was both valuable and beneficial.

Highlighting that Türkiye is the TRNC’s sole pillar of support and that the two sides act together on political and military matters, Ertuğruloğlu added that even within this “ring of fire” they continue to live in security and stability.

Responding again to claims about a possible NATO bid by the Greek Cypriot administration, he reiterated: “They can keep dreaming. We see the game they are playing. Motherland Türkiye also sees it. Such an outcome is not possible.”

Regarding the security risks for the island as the war involving the United States-Israel and Iran continues, Ertuğruloğlu said: “As long as Türkiye’s security guarantee remains in place, there is no likelihood of a military attack against the TRNC and those who might consider such a move are well aware of the consequences.”