Turkish Minister of National Defence Hulusi Akar has said that a solution in Cyprus can only be possible with the acceptance of the existence of two sovereign and equally independent states.

Describing Cyprus as a national cause, Akar said,“We are determined and capable of protecting our rights and interests and those of our Cypriot brothers and sisters.”

Turkish Minister of National Defence Hulusi Akar, speaking during a presentation of his ministry’s 2023 budget at the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s Planning and Budget Committee meeting, touched upon the latest developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Cyprus issue.

Stressing that it would be for the benefit of Greece and NATO to see Türkiye, not as a threat but as a strong, reliable and effective ally in accordance with the spirit of alliance, Akar said, “Our sincere wish is that the Aegean and the Mediterranean become a sea of ​​friendship and that the region’s wealth is shared fairly.”

Stating that the search for a solution to the Cyprus Problem had been inconclusive due to the uncompromising and unchanging attitude of the Greek Cypriot side, Akar said, “A solution in Cyprus is only possible with the acceptance of the existence of two sovereign and equally independent states. Now, necessary steps have started to be taken for the international recognition of the TRNC. In this context, the TRNC was granted observer membership to the Organization of Turkic States.”

Describing Cyprus as a national cause, Akar said, “Although we are open to dialogue, we have not and will not allow a fait accompli in Cyprus, the Aegean or the Eastern Mediterranean. We are determined and capable of protecting our rights and interests and those of our Cypriot brothers and sisters.”