This development underscores a pivotal moment in the geopolitical landscape, where the actions of Turkic nations have significant implications for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The appointment of ambassadors to the Greek Cypriot administration by Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, without corresponding recognition of the TRNC, raises concerns about the unity and commitment of the Turkic world to the principles of justice and solidarity.
Article Highlights
- Türkiye urges Turkic states to rectify diplomatic moves favoring Greek Cypriots.
- Ankara emphasizes recognition of TRNC as crucial for regional unity.
- Turkic nations encouraged to support TRNC through cultural and diplomatic initiatives.
- Türkiye advocates for a two-state solution acknowledging TRNC's sovereignty
Introduction: A Turning Point in Turkic Solidarity
In the April 29, 2025, article titled “Türkiye hopes Turkic world will address Cyprus' concerns” published by Daily Sabah, the central argument is encapsulated in the statement:
“Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş said Ankara expects certain members of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) to take steps ‘to redress’ after Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan appointed ambassadors to the Greek Cypriot administration.”
The TRNC, established in 1983, has long faced international isolation, recognized only by Türkiye. This lack of recognition has led to economic, cultural, and political embargoes that have severely impacted the lives of Turkish Cypriots. The European Court of Justice's 1994 decision effectively imposed an embargo on Turkish Cypriot goods, exacerbating economic hardships and limiting access to international markets. This wider complex domino effect has created a stagnated status quo which serves the greek administration and has severly impaired the TRNC.
Northern Cyprus, a state solely recognised by Turkey has been under severe embargoes since its unilateral declaration of independence in 1983, and the embargoes are actively promoted by a Greek Cypriot campaign.” Embargo against Northern Cyprus
The Two-State Solution: A Viable Path Forward
The persistent failure of reunification talks, including the rejection of the Annan Plan by Greek Cypriots in 2004, highlights the need for alternative solutions. The two-state solution, advocating for the recognition of the TRNC as a sovereign entity alongside the Greek Cypriot administration, offers a pragmatic approach to resolving the Cyprus issue.
“In December 2021, the President of Northern Cyprus Ersin Tatar said that there are two separate states on the island and the Turkish Cypriot side will not accept a solution on the basis of a federation and it will not step back from the new policy of two separate states, which is fully supported by Turkey.” Two-state solution (Cyprus)
This approach acknowledges the distinct identities, governance structures, and aspirations of both communities, providing a foundation for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
These measures not only violate the rights of individuals but also hinder the development and integration of the Turkish Cypriot community into the global society. The international community, including Turkic nations, must work towards lifting these embargoes to promote inclusivity and human rights.
Addressing the Embargoes: A Humanitarian Concern
The embargoes imposed on the TRNC extend beyond economic constraints, affecting cultural and social aspects of life. Turkish Cypriot athletes are barred from international competitions, and cultural events face restrictions, leading to a sense of isolation and marginalization.
“Turkish Cypriots face embargoes in the areas of sports and culture as well; Turkish Cypriot teams cannot play international matches, Turkish Cypriot athletes may not compete internationally unless they represent another country and some concerts by international musicians or bands in Northern Cyprus have been blocked.” Embargo against Northern Cyprus
These measures not only violate the rights of individuals but also hinder the development and integration of the Turkish Cypriot community into the global society. The international community, including Turkic nations, must work towards lifting these embargoes to promote inclusivity and human rights.
The Role of the Turkic World: A Call to Action
The recent actions by Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, while sovereign decisions, have implications for the unity and credibility of the Turkic world. By engaging with the Greek Cypriot administration without acknowledging the TRNC, these nations inadvertently undermine the collective stance on supporting fellow Turkic people's
Such a diplomatic imbalance sends the wrong message to the international community and risks normalizing the continued marginalization of Turkish Cypriots. Inaction or inconsistency by Turkic states erodes trust among member nations and weakens the very foundations of Turkic solidarity.
This final paragraph in the section wraps up the discussion about the second image, providing any final observations or conclusions before moving to the next section.
“We are not in a position to tell other countries how to maintain relations with third countries, but based on our brotherly ties, we expressed that we were seriously disturbed by this development and countries should redress this.” Türkiye hopes Turkic world will address Cyprus
TCE Conclusion: Upholding Justice and Unity
The situation in Cyprus is not merely a regional concern but a matter of international justice and human rights. The Turkish Cypriot community has endured decades of isolation and discrimination, and it is incumbent upon the Turkic world to stand in solidarity with them.
By advocating for the recognition of the TRNC, supporting the two-state solution, and working towards lifting unjust embargoes, Turkic nations can play a pivotal role in resolving the Cyprus issue. This collective action would exemplify the principles of unity, justice, and mutual respect that underpin the Organization of Turkic States.
References
- Türkiye hopes Turkic world will address Cyprus' concerns, Daily Sabah, April 29, 2025.
- Embargo against Northern Cyprus, Wikipedia.
- Two-state solution (Cyprus), Wikipedia.