The conference titled “From Past to Future: The Cyprus Issue and Our National Cause,” organized in cooperation with our University and the Consulate General of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in Trabzon, was held at the Prof. Dr. Osman Turan Culture and Congress Center with the honored participation of TRNC Speaker of the Assembly Dr. Ziya ÖZTÜRKLER as the keynote speaker.

The program, which addressed the historical background of the Cyprus issue, its reflections on the international stage, and the current framework of Türkiye–TRNC relations, was attended by distinguished protocol members, representatives of public institutions and organizations, civil society representatives, academic and administrative staff, and our students.

“The Cyprus Cause Is a National Issue That Each Generation Must Re-embrace and Uphold”

The program began with a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, followed by the screening of the “KTU Introductory Film” and the themed video “Independence Is in Our Spirit,” prepared by our University’s Corporate Communication Office Radio/TV Unit. In the opening remarks, Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah ÇUVALCI emphasized the significance of gathering to revisit the historical memory of the Cyprus issue and to strengthen a shared awareness for the future. He noted that hosting Dr. Ziya ÖZTÜRKLER, Speaker of the Parliament of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, was a great honor for the University. Rector ÇUVALCI underlined that Dr. ÖZTÜRKLER’s extensive experience, both in academia and public service, offers valuable insights into the Cyprus question. He stressed that the conference would not only provide an overview of past developments but also contribute to a forward-looking understanding of the issue. Highlighting the multifaceted nature of the Cyprus cause, the Rector stated that it is more than a geographical matter; it carries historical, political, cultural, and identity-based dimensions that deeply resonate within the Turkish nation. He emphasized that the Cyprus cause is a national responsibility that every generation must understand anew and protect. Within this context, he pointed out that the program holds particular importance for strengthening young people’s sense of history and awareness of national issues.

“Our Shared History, Values, and Heritage Reflect a Unified Struggle”

Following the opening remarks, the President of the TRNC Assembly, Dr. Ziya ÖZTÜRKLER, delivered his presentation titled “From Past to Future: The Cyprus Issue and Our National Cause.” In his address, he provided a comprehensive overview of the historical, political, and strategic context of the Cyprus issue. He touched upon the Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Cyprus in 1571 and the island’s uninterrupted administration under Ottoman rule for over three centuries, the transfer of its administration to Britain in 1878, and the unilateral annexation of the island by the British in 1914. He also referred to the ideological foundations of the Megali Idea and the Enosis movement, which sought to unite Cyprus with Greece, and discussed the establishment of the Turkish Resistance Organization (TMT) in 1957 to counter escalating attacks against Turkish Cypriots. Dr. ÖZTÜRKLER went on to explain the formation of the 1960 Republic of Cyprus as a bi-communal partnership state based on the political equality of Turkish and Greek Cypriots, and how this structure collapsed by 1963 due to Enosis-driven initiatives. He underlined the importance of the Erenköy Resistance as a turning point for the morale and security of the Turkish Cypriot community, as well as the subsequent period between 1964 and 1974, during which Turkish Cypriots were forced to live under severe restrictions, isolation, and blockade. He addressed the 1974 coup in Cyprus, Türkiye’s intervention that followed, and the population exchange that divided the island into northern and southern regions. Further, he outlined the proclamation of the Turkish Federated State of Cyprus in 1975, the initiation yet failure of bi-communal negotiations up to 1983, and the declaration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on 15 November 1983 as a response to the continued unilateral claims of authority by the Greek Cypriot leadership. Continuing his remarks, Dr. ÖZTÜRKLER discussed the persistent rejection by the Greek Cypriot side of key principles, such as political equality, partnership governance, effective participation, and security guarantees throughout the negotiation processes, including the 2004 Annan Plan. He also addressed the current vision of sovereign equality within the framework of the 2021 Geneva talks, emphasizing a cooperation-based model between two sovereign and equal states. Additionally, he highlighted the recent militarization efforts of the Greek Cypriot administration and the implications this poses for Türkiye’s national security, maritime jurisdiction areas, and historical responsibilities, noting that these developments further reinforce the national significance of the Cyprus cause. Dr. ÖZTÜRKLER concluded by underscoring the strategic and geopolitical importance of the TRNC, emphasizing that no force can undermine the unity, solidarity, and shared values of the Turkish nation and the Turkish Cypriot people. He expressed that the Turkish Cypriot community draws strength from its historical roots and the legacy of Mehmetçik and Mücahit, affirming their determination to remain steadfast on these lands. He reiterated that the TRNC will continue to walk its path in close cooperation with the Republic of Türkiye.

 

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