The Turkic World’s Unfinished Portrait: TRNC Recognition

The Summit That Redefined Recognition

“Turkish president says Turkic world ‘incomplete’ without Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”, the central assertion is clear and direct: the Turkic world remains fractured without the rightful inclusion of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). With President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s emphatic statement, "We believe the Turkic world family photo will always be incomplete without the presence of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus," the article serves as a clarion call for overdue recognition. This remark, delivered during the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) summit in Budapest, goes beyond symbolism, signalling a geopolitical realignment that demands the international community reckon with the legitimate, sovereign aspirations of the TRNC.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's decleration during the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) summit in Budapest underscores Türkiye's unwavering commitment to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and its rightful place within the Turkic world.

His advocasy for the inclusion and recognition of the TRNC within international platforms send a powerful message. This stance is further reinforced by the OTS's Budapest Declaration, which acknowledges the TRNC as an “inseparable” part of the Turkic world .

The OTS Summit: A Milestone for TRNC Recognition

The OTS summit in Budapest marked a significant milestone in the TRNC's long-contested journey toward international recognition, signalling a decisive shift in geopolitical alliances. By adopting the Budapest Declaration, the Organization of Turkic States not only reaffirmed its unity but also took a bold diplomatic step that explicitly designated the TRNC as an “inseparable” part of the Turkic world. This declaration, adopted by both member and observer states, delivers an unambiguous message of solidarity and signals the regional normalization of TRNC's sovereign status. It also highlights the growing assertiveness of Turkic nations in recalibrating international norms that have for too long sidelined the legitimate aspirations of Turkish Cypriots.

This call to action underscores the collective responsibility of Turkic nations to advocate for the TRNC's rightful place in the international community.

One on One with TRNC President Ersin Tatar

The TRNC's Quest for Sovereignty and Equality

The TRNC's pursuit of international recognition is rooted in its desire for sovereignty and equal status among nations. Despite decades of diplomatic efforts, the island of Cyprus remains divided, with the TRNC facing political and economic isolation.

President Ersin Tatar of the TRNC emphasized the significance of the OTS's support, stating that the Budapest Declaration represents a “turning point” for the TRNC's status within the Turkic world . He further asserted:

“This declaration goes beyond a mere show of support. It represents a clear and unequivocal recognition of the regional acceptance of our solution vision, which is based on sovereign equality and equal international status.” President Ersin Tatar

The TRNC's commitment to a two-state solution reflects its determination to establish a framework that acknowledges the realities on the island and ensures the rights and freedoms of its people.

The Path Forward: Advocating for a Two-State Solution

The persistent impasse in reunification talks necessitates a reevaluation of potential solutions. The TRNC's advocacy for a two-state solution, supported by Türkiye, offers a pragmatic approach that acknowledges the distinct identities and governance structures of the two communities on the island.

This perspective is grounded in the principle of sovereign equality and seeks to establish a framework that ensures the rights and freedoms of both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots. By embracing a two-state solution, the international community can facilitate a sustainable and just resolution to the longstanding Cyprus issue.

TCE Conclusion

The inclusion of the TRNC within the Organization of Turkic States and the affirmations made during the Budapest summit represent significant strides toward the recognition and empowerment of Turkish Cypriots. Türkiye's unwavering support and the collective solidarity of Turkic nations underscore the imperative of acknowledging the TRNC's sovereignty and advocating for equitable solutions.

As the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the Cyprus issue, it is essential to prioritize approaches that respect the rights and aspirations of all parties involved. The pursuit of a two-state solution, grounded in mutual recognition and cooperation, offers a viable path forward toward lasting peace and stability on the island.