Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reiterated the call for a two-state solution to the Cyprus issue, labelling it as the best framework to ensure equality and stability for both communities on the island.
In an interview with Turkish broadcaster A Haber, Fidan emphasised that the reality on the ground is clear: “Turks live in the north, Greeks live in the south, and thanks to the presence of the Turkish army since 1974, life has continued without a hitch.” His remarks highlight the ongoing division of Cyprus and the longstanding tensions surrounding its status.
Fidan dismissed the international community’s resistance to a two-state solution, characterising it as a “historical delusion” influenced by “Greek Cypriot and Greek propaganda.” He accused these groups of creating a misleading narrative that suggests they are in favour of alternative solutions.
During the conversation, Fidan also touched upon Turkey’s potential reintegration into the F-35 fighter jet programme. He revealed insights following Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s recent visit to the White House on September 25, where former US President Donald Trump apparently conveyed that the CAATSA law should not obstruct US-Turkey relations.
Fidan quoted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated, “I was a senator, I was on the side that passed the law. Now I am executive, I came to the side of the administration. The President gave me a directive to implement it.” This indicates a shift in the US stance towards Turkey, suggesting that cooperative solutions are attainable if goodwill prevails.
On the issue of European defence funding, Fidan recognised the challenges posed by objections from Greece and Cyprus, as their consent is crucial for progress. He assured that the Turkish Ministry of Defence is actively coordinating with the Defence Industry Directorate to navigate these hurdles.
Turning attention to current events in Gaza, Fidan stated that Turkey stands ready to provide necessary assistance, potentially including troop deployment as part of an international stabilisation force. “Our commander-in-chief President Erdogan is responsible for the final decision on troop deployment. The will here is that, if the necessary conditions are met, Turkey is ready to step in and will act responsibly in every matter, including the deployment of troops,” he affirmed, sending a clear message to the international community about Turkey’s readiness to engage.
