During his international talks in New York as the elected President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), President Ersin Tatar strongly criticized those advocating for a federation, calling their actions treasonous. Tatar emphasized that the two-state policy is the only viable solution and condemned those who reject it, stating that they “do not know the law and have no respect for the struggle.”

Tatar made these remarks at a ceremony held at the Cyprus TMT Mujahideen Association, commemorating the 19th anniversary of the passing of Bozkurt Kenan Çoygun, the Commander of the Turkish Resistance Organization (TMT). In attendance were President Tatar, Head of Civil Defense Atilla Karaca, representatives of the Cyprus Turkish Peace Forces, Security Forces Command, TMT members, and mujahideen.

Kenan Çoygun Commemorated with Respect

The ceremony, which began with a moment of silence and the national anthem, included speeches from TMT Mujahideen Association President Celal Bayar and President Tatar. Researcher Oktay Öksüzoğlu also shared personal memories of Çoygun, highlighting his contributions to the Turkish Cypriot cause. Çoygun's biography and a message from his family were also read during the event, followed by the presentation of the National Struggle Medal.

President Tatar's Firm Stance on Two-State Solution

In his speech, Tatar paid tribute to Kenan Çoygun’s leadership, recalling his pivotal role in defending the Turkish Cypriots during critical times up until 1974. He also remembered Çoygun’s family for their unwavering support for the Turkish Cypriot people.

Tatar reiterated the importance of the two-state policy and criticized those advocating for a federation, saying, “Federation means the majority governing the minority.” He noted that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in his recent speech during the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation, described the TRNC as the "apple of Turkey's eye," further underscoring the legitimacy of the TRNC’s stance on sovereignty and equal international status.

Tatar emphasized that an agreement without soldiers and guarantees would be "madness," given the TRNC’s significant territory and maritime jurisdiction. He highlighted the growing international recognition of the TRNC's position, referencing the increasing importance placed on the region by Turkish allies, including Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

A Call for Unity and Continued Independence

Tatar warned against any compromise on the independence and sovereignty of the Turkish Cypriots, stressing that abandoning the two-state solution would be a betrayal. He reaffirmed his position as the elected leader of the TRNC, supported by Turkey, and called on all Turkish Cypriots to stand firm against federation talks.

Celal Bayar: Kenan Çoygun, a Legend in Turkish Cypriot History

Celal Bayar, President of the Cyprus TMT Mujahideen Association, commemorated Kenan Çoygun with heartfelt words, expressing gratitude for his leadership. He recalled the historical struggle of the Turkish Cypriots during a time when the Greek Cypriots aimed to destroy their community as part of the Akritas Plan.

Bayar noted that under Çoygun's military and political leadership, the Turkish Cypriots developed unprecedented levels of cooperation and faith in their cause. He concluded by affirming the importance of maintaining the legacy of Çoygun and the sovereignty of the TRNC, stressing that the solution lies in two separate states.