Turkish Minister of National Defence Hulusi Akar said that they were following developments in Cyprus closely and that the eagerness of the Greek Cypriot administration to take up arms will serve nothing more than increase tensions.

Stressing that this has led to a deadlock, Akar noted that Türkiye would not give up its rights and responsibilities as a guarantor.

Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar made statements on the Cyprus issue and the tensions in the Aegean during the distinguished observer day activities of the “Free Fire-2022” exercise in the capital Ankara on Tuesday.

Stating that they were following the developments in Cyprus closely, he stressed that Türkiye as a guarantor country will continue to fulfil its rights and responsibilities.

“It should be known by everyone that the armament aspirations of Greece or the Greek Cypriot Administration will serve nothing more than raise tensions and that this in turn will lead to a deadlock,” Akar said.

Touching upon the problems with Greece, he said “we believe that problems can be resolved through mutual negotiations and dialogue. We persist in this approach.”

“But on the other hand, everyone should know that we will not allow a fait accompli or an undesirable situation in any way.  Türkiye always follows a responsible, prudent, and patient policy to ensure peace and stability,” Akar added.

The Turkish Defence Minister also stressed that Türkiye was not a threat to anyone but instead was a strong, reliable, and effective ally.