The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Foreign Ministry has issued a formal statement regarding Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's upcoming visit to the Greek Cypriot administration in southern Cyprus. The ministry noted with concern that the Cyprus issue is expected to be on the agenda during Abbas's meeting with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides.
The ministry underlined that the Turkish Cypriot people have long supported the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and their legitimate struggle. "In line with this strong historical solidarity, we wish to emphasize our expectation that the TRNC's legitimate rights and sensitivities be taken into consideration," the statement read.
Highlighting the reality of two distinct peoples and two separate states on the island, the ministry said the visit — conducted without regard for the will of the Turkish Cypriot people — had been received with disappointment in northern Cyprus.
The ministry concluded by reaffirming its openness to dialogue with the Palestinian people and leadership, expressing hope that future contacts would develop in a spirit of mutual understanding.
