Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) marked the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation on July 20, 2024, with grand celebrations and military displays. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended ceremonies in the TRNC, emphasizing the operation’s importance in securing Turkish Cypriot rights and freedoms. The event featured a naval parade in Girne, Cyprus, with 50 ships, including the TCG Anadolu, alongside fighter jets, helicopters, and armed drones.President Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to defending the rights and interests of Turkish Cypriots, calling for a two-state solution and international recognition of the TRNC. He stated that a federal solution is no longer possible, contrasting with the position of Greek Cypriots and the international community. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued statements emphasizing that the TRNC will continue to move forward under Turkey’s guarantee.However, the anniversary highlighted the ongoing division of the island. While Turkish Cypriots celebrated, Greek Cypriots mourned the events of 1974. The Greek Cypriot President, Nikos Christodoulides, rejected Turkey’s demands for a two-state solution, insisting on reunification. The European Union, represented by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressed support for Cyprus’ reunification efforts, stating that the Cyprus issue is a European one.The contrasting positions underscore the continuing challenges in resolving the Cyprus issue, even 50 years after the initial conflict. Despite calls for negotiation and peaceful resolution from various parties, including the UN and EU, the two sides remain entrenched in their positions, leaving the future of Cyprus uncertain.
Key points
- Turkey and TRNC celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation with military parades and ceremonies.
- President Erdogan reiterated calls for a two-state solution, while Greek Cypriots and the EU advocate for reunification.
- The anniversary highlighted the ongoing division of Cyprus and the challenges in resolving the conflict.
Contradictions👾While Turkey and TRNC celebrate the Cyprus Peace Operation as bringing peace to the island, Greek Cypriots view it as an invasion that led to division.
👾Turkey insists on a two-state solution, while the UN, EU, and Greek Cypriots advocate for reunification as a federation.
