President Ersin Tatar stated that the Turkish Cypriot people were subjected to moral attacks in order to be annihilated from the island however the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus continues to exist and strengthen despite all difficulties, adding that the Cyprus issue should be looked at from this perspective as well.

Speaking at a conference on the Qur’an organized by the Department of Religious Affairs, Tatar said “the Turkish Cypriot People has the determination and belief to continue its existence in this country with its national consciousness, as well as its spirituality and culture.”

He also stressed that they were fighting for the perpetuation and existence of the Turkish Cypriot People.

Noting that the existence of two separate peoples, cultures, structures and democracies in this country had been registered within the context of international laws, Tatar referred to the importance of spirituality in further strengthening these.

Criticising Pope Francis who only visited South Cyprus and met only with the Christian community, the President said “I sent him a sincere invitation and invited him to meet with us and the Head of the Religious Affairs Department. He only visited South Cyprus and said ‘I came together with the Turkish Cypriots’. This was unfair.”

Stating that the struggle had been continuing for centuries, Tatar referred to the importance of such meetings, in raising religious and well educated individuals who are ready to serve their people.

“The Turkish Cypriot People is not alone. Alongside its national conscience it has the determination and faith to continue its existence in this country with its moral values and culture” the President added.