We strongly condemn the Greek Cypriot Administration’s statements on the occasion of the 43rd anniversary of the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation’s second phase, in which it is alleged that the so-called invasion must come to an end and that Ankara must abandon its irreconcilable stance.

It is very well known that, Motherland Turkey intervened in Cyprus on 20 July 1974 against the coup d’etat carried out by Greece in 1974, exercising its rights and obligations that arise from international agreements. The second phase of the Peace Operation took place on 14 August 1974 and the date carries great importance in the Turkish Cypriot Community’s struggle for existence. Owing to Motherland Turkey’s two-phased Peace Operation, the Turkish Cypriots had the opportunity to live freely and securely on their own land.

It must not be forgotten that, the timely intervention of Turkey did not only prevent annexation of Cyprus to Greece, but also laid the foundations of democracy in the whole island while bringing peace, security and state of stability for the Turkish Cypriot people. In light of this reality, it must be known by all that we will not allow any damage to the state of peace and tranquillity which has been established on the island after great struggle.

The rightful intervention of Turkey is based on 1959-60 Zurich and London Agreements and is in accordance with the international law. Contrary to the accusations in the said statement, it is the very same Greek Cypriot Administration that expelled Turkish Cypriots – the equal partner of the 1960 partnership state – from the administration and government bodies by force of arms and subverted constitutional order with unilateral use of force. Even after a settlement in the framework of new modalities between the Turkish and Greek Cypriots, the presence of Turkish troops on the island will remain the most important element ensuring the security of the Turkish Cypriot people.

The unfair accusations in the statement by the Greek Cypriot Administration, according to which Turkey bears the responsibility for the collapse of the Conference in Crans-Montana, can never be accepted. Contrary to the claims in question, the international community has also witnessed the constructive and well-intentioned efforts exhibited by the Turkish Cypriot side and Motherland Turkey. As a matter of fact, the only reason behind the failure to reach a deal in the latest conference held in Crans-Montana is the Greek Cypriot side’s strategy that rejects power sharing with the Turkish Cypriots on the basis of political equality and by further prolonging and bringing the process to a standstill, strengthening its recognition in the international arena.

Now that the process has failed and it became evident that it would not be possible to reach a solution within the UN parameters, instead of making baseless allegations, we invite the Greek Cypriot side to look for ways of living side by side and in peace with the Turkish Cypriots, pursuant to good neighbourly relations.