Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed Ankara's unwavering support for Turkish Cypriots on Wednesday, announcing a series of new infrastructure projects for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). "No initiative that ignores the sovereign equality, rights, and legitimate interests of Turkish Cypriots in the Eastern Mediterranean can succeed," Erdogan asserted after a Cabinet meeting in the capital, Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan's remarks followed the 52nd anniversary of the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation, marking July 20, 1974, as a pivotal moment that secured the existence, freedom, and security of Turkish Cypriots. He emphasized Turkey's role as a guarantor power, which facilitated peace and stability on the island and highlighted the broader implications of the Cyprus issue, which centers on the recognition of Turkish Cypriots' sovereign equality and international status.
Erdogan welcomed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recent visit to Cyprus, noting Turkey's consistent support for his peace initiatives. He criticized proposals that sought to reduce Turkish Cypriots to minority status, insisting on a fair and sustainable settlement to ensure lasting peace.
Reiterating Ankara's commitment to Turkish Cypriots, Erdogan declared, "Turkey will never abandon Turkish Cypriot brothers and will never allow past suffering to be repeated, whatever the cost." He announced ongoing infrastructure investments to position the TRNC as a regional leader in various sectors, including tourism, higher education, technology, and digital transformation.
Addressing broader regional conflicts, Erdogan accused Israel of gradually occupying Palestinian territories and highlighted the resulting instability affecting the region and its diverse communities. He also discussed economic measures, emphasizing Turkey's strategy to become a regional energy hub amidst global disruptions and rising costs.
Erdogan announced increases in rediscount credit limits for exporters and subsidized investment loans, alongside additional favorable financing for the manufacturing industry. To protect jobs in the tourism sector, he unveiled a monthly support payment for employees at licensed tourism facilities and additional financing backed by Treasury guarantees to support labor-intensive sectors.