Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Işıksal, Special Advisor to the President on Diplomacy, criticized the Greek Cypriot side's armament policies and emphasized the Turkish Cypriot side's commitment to sovereign equality and peace during an interview on Kıbrıs TV. Addressing recent developments, including the opening of new border gates and international diplomatic dynamics, Işıksal underscored the importance of Turkey's role as a guarantor for maintaining stability in Cyprus since 1974.

“Federation Talks Are History”

Highlighting the failure of over 50 years of bi-communal federation negotiations, Işıksal stated, “The aim of the Greek Cypriot side and some opposition groups was to force the Turkish Cypriots into submission. However, this influence has been broken. There will no longer be ‘pretend’ negotiations. Those who genuinely want a solution will come to the table.”

Işıksal added that the two-state policy has enabled progress in state formation for the Turkish Cypriot side, asserting their demand for equal international status and sovereign equality remains non-negotiable.

“Equal Rights for Turkish Cypriots”

Referring to the diplomatic standing of the Turkish Cypriots, Işıksal said, “Whatever the Greek Cypriot side considers itself to be, the Turkish Cypriots have at least as many rights and an equal status. We are open to negotiations that yield real results for both peoples.”

New Border Gate to Boost Trade

On the planned Haspolat border gate, Işıksal noted its potential to enhance trade and social interactions between the two communities. “The Haspolat gate will significantly increase trade volume and improve access to Ercan Airport for Greeks. However, the Greek side is pushing for less accessible gates,” he said, emphasizing that the Turkish Cypriot side is demonstrating goodwill in this matter.

Criticism of Armament Policies

Işıksal criticized the Greek Cypriot government for prioritizing increased defense spending over essential services like health and education. He warned that such policies could destabilize the already fragile balance in the Eastern Mediterranean.

“The military agreements and base allocations made with the US show that the US has lost its neutrality. This armament policy makes the region even riskier,” Işıksal said, pointing to the potential repercussions of the Greek side's involvement in regional conflicts, including its logistical support to Israel during operations in Gaza and Lebanon.

“Peace Thanks to Türkiye’s Role”

Acknowledging Turkey’s role as a guarantor, Işıksal praised the prevailing peace on the island since 1974. “No one has had a nosebleed since 1974, thanks to Turkey’s support. In a chaotic Middle East, Cyprus is like an oasis of peace, and we must appreciate this environment,” he stated.

Işıksal concluded by calling for diplomatic efforts to address the risks posed by the Greek Cypriot armament policies, while reaffirming the Turkish Cypriot side’s commitment to peace, stability, and equality.