WNAM MONITORING: Turkish Cypriots are an integral and equal part of Cyprus and have never been a minority, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President Tufan Erhurman said Monday.
“This people are an essential element and equal owner of the island. They are not a minority, have never been one, and never will be,” Erhurman said at a ceremony in the capital Lefkosa marking the 52nd anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation and July 20, Peace and Freedom Day.
He said Turkish Cypriots remained committed to a settlement but do not want negotiations merely for the sake of holding talks.
Erhurman said the UN-led process was being conducted “in consultation and full coordination” with Türkiye.
“We firmly reject making our people and children pay the price of the lack of a solution under circumstances in which a settlement could not be reached for reasons not caused by us,” he said.
Erhurman also stressed that Turkish Cypriots would not relinquish their rights, equality, or security on the island, while they continue to support efforts for lasting peace and stability.
