Prime Minister Üstel slams Greek Cypriot leader

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel reaffirmed that the Turkish presence in Cyprus is permanent and that the withdrawal of Republic of Türkiye and Turkish troops from the island is inconceivable.

He stated that the Turkish Cypriot people were saved from massacres and ensured their survival on the island thanks to the system of guarantees and the presence of Turkish troops, adding that their existence is owed to the Republic of Türkiye. Üstel also noted that the guarantees and the presence of Turkish troops have contributed to freedom and peace for Greek Cypriots as well.

Expressing deep concern over recent developments and statements by officials in the Greek Cypriot administration, Prime Minister Üstel reacted strongly, stating:

“I am following recent events in the Greek Cypriot administration with concern. Slogans chanted by Greek Cypriot soldiers claiming that Cyprus belongs to Greece, followed by events expressing nostalgia for the EOKA terrorist organization, as well as statements exceeding acceptable limits by the Greek Ambassador and the leader of the extremist ELAM party, are all troubling.

We are closely monitoring these developments together with our people. The Greek Cypriot leadership must take responsibility for its soldiers and clearly understand that Cyprus has never belonged to Greece and will never do so. Any such slogans, past or future, are nothing more than illusions.

The images displayed at the EOKA event organized by the party of the Speaker of the Greek Cypriot Assembly not only undermine the environment of peace in Cyprus, but also reflect tha fact that Greek Cypriot youth are being raised with hostility toward Turks.

Children having ‘EOKA’ written on their heads during the event is further evidence of the kind of upbringing being promoted. This is deeply disturbing.”