Turkey has firmly rejected the characterisations of ‘occupation’ and ‘invasion’ in relation to Cyprus during the recent opening ceremony of the island’s EU presidency. Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Oncu Keceli voiced the country’s stance on Thursday night, asserting that such terms do not reflect the historical and current realities on the island.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Invasion: Statements from Turkish Officials
Keceli pointed out that the only ‘occupation’ in Cyprus stems from the Greek Cypriot side’s actions since 1963, when they allegedly usurped the partnership state’s offices, violating the constitution and disregarding the rights of Turkish Cypriots. He stated, “These terms are in no way compatible with the historical and current realities on the island.”
He particularly criticised the European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president Antonio Costa for their remarks, claiming they showed a disregard for the existence of the Turkish Cypriots. Keceli’s comments highlight his belief that the EU demonstrates double standards when it comes to humanitarian values.
Reactions at the Ceremony
During the ceremony, Costa made explicit references to Cyprus’s history of ‘occupation’ and ‘division’, stating that it has shaped the EU’s understanding of international law. He remarked, “The EU cannot accept violations of international law, whether in Cyprus, Latin America, Greenland, Ukraine, or Gaza.”
In contrast, von der Leyen chose not to use the terms ‘invasion’ or ‘occupation’ but emphasised the importance of not allowing division to define the future of the EU. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, however, was direct in his terminology, calling Nicosia “our continent’s last occupied capital” and describing Cyprus as “a small and under occupation country.”
Concerns from Turkish Cypriots
Following the ceremony, Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman expressed his disappointment, noting that von der Leyen had ignored the Turkish Cypriot community in her speech. He remarked, “We will not ignore being ignored,” emphasising the necessity for recognition of the Turkish Cypriots’ existence in discussions about Cyprus.
Erhurman highlighted the need for confidence-building measures between the EU and Turkish Cypriots. He indicated that ongoing dialogue is essential for fostering understanding and addressing the political dimensions of the Cyprus issue. “The Turkish Cypriot people existed, exist, and will continue to exist on this island,” he affirmed, underscoring their determination to be acknowledged in international discussions.
A Call for Dialogue and Recognition
Erhurman called for a reconsideration of the narratives presented by EU officials, believing that a more inclusive approach could enhance understanding of the Turkish Cypriot perspective. He stated, “Let no one overlook our determination,” indicating a firm stance on the importance of Turkish Cypriot representation in future dialogues.
