The decision by the United States government to renew, for fiscal year 2027, the lifting of defense restrictions concerning the Republic of Cyprus for the 2027 fiscal year.
The Turkish and Turkish Cypriot sides argue that the decision could negatively affect trust between the two communities and security in the region.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release that actions which, in its view, may further erode trust between the two sides in Cyprus, and it shares the positions expressed in a related statement by the “Ministry of Foreign Affairs” in the occupied territories,
It claims that the Greek Cypriot side is “intensifying the pressure it exerts,” as it states, on the Turkish Cypriot community and that its military buildup is undermining regional stability. The Turkish Foreign Ministry further notes that Turkey, as a guarantor power, will continue to defend the rights and interests of Turkish Cypriots and “ensure their safety.”
For its part, the “Foreign Ministry” in the occupied territories expressed “deep regret” over the U.S. government’s decision, arguing that it overlooks the “realities on the island and in the region” and may fuel the arms race.
The statement further notes that, at a time of serious conflicts and critical developments, particularly in the Middle East, actors on the international stage should take into account the “delicate balances” in the Eastern Mediterranean and take actions that contribute to peace and stability.
The “ministry” also calls on the international community to pursue a “fair and balanced policy,” reiterating the Turkish Cypriot position on “two separate states and two separate peoples” in Cyprus.
Both Ankara and the Turkish Cypriot side reiterated, finally, their position that they will continue their cooperation on issues concerning the security and interests of the Turkish Cypriot community.
Source: CNA
