Statement of the TRNC Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the Visit of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus

It has been noted with due attention that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will visit the Greek Cypriot administration of Southern Cyprus and that, during his meeting with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides within the framework of the visit, the Cyprus issue will also be discussed.

The Turkish Cypriot People have always wholeheartedly supported the Palestinian People’s right to self-determination and their legitimate struggle. In keeping with this strong and historic solidarity, we wish to underline our expectation that the legitimate rights and sensitivities of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus be duly taken into consideration.

In light of the reality that there are two separate Peoples and two separate States on the Island, the Turkish Cypriot People are saddened that this visit is being conducted in disregard of their will.

We wish to reiterate that we remain open to dialogue and mutual understanding with the friendly Palestinian People and their leadership, and express once again our expectation that our contacts will develop in this spirit.