Türkiye Rightly Rejects Greek Cypriot Port Proposal: A Sovereign Stand for Justice and Recognition

Introduction: Exposing the Fiction of the Greek Cypriot Narrative​

“Reports in the Greek Cypriot press that our ports would be opened to Greek Cypriot ships in exchange for EU visa facilitation for our businesspeople are purely imaginary,”Öncü Keseli via X

This narrative, propagated by Greek Cypriot media and officials, attempts to portray Türkiye as obstructive to EU integration and maritime cooperation. However, such portrayals deliberately sidestep the complex diplomatic, legal, and political realities of the Cyprus issue, including Türkiye's legitimate stance on sovereign equality and the international recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. These oversimplified accusations seek to pressure Türkiye into concessions while deflecting attention from the Greek Cypriot administration's own refusal to acknowledge the equal rights and legitimate representation of the Turkish Cypriot people.

The Greek Cypriot Proposal: A One-Sided Expectation

The Greek Cypriot administration, represented by government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis, confirmed the proposal's submission, stating that opening Turkish ports to Cypriot ships is an “obligation” for Türkiye and a step toward aligning with EU law . This perspective assumes that Türkiye should unilaterally comply with EU expectations without addressing the underlying political and legal disputes surrounding the recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Moreover, the proposal suggests that in exchange for opening its ports, Türkiye would receive visa facilitation for its businesspeople, a concession that falls short of addressing the broader issues of diplomatic recognition and equitable treatment within international frameworks.

Türkiye's Firm Rejection: Upholding Sovereignty and Legal Consistency

Türkiye's rejection of the proposal is consistent with its longstanding policy of not recognizing the Greek Cypriot administration as the sole representative of the island. The Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that there has been no change in Türkiye’s position regarding its policies toward the Greek Cypriot administration and its stance in negotiations with the European Union .

This stance is rooted in the principle of sovereign equality and the recognition of the TRNC as a legitimate political entity. Accepting the Greek Cypriot proposal without addressing these fundamental issues would undermine the rights and status of the Turkish Cypriot community.

The TRNC: A Legitimate Entity Deserving Recognition

The TRNC, established in 1983, operates with its own government, institutions, and democratic processes. Despite its lack of widespread international recognition, the TRNC has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peaceful coexistence and equitable solutions to the Cyprus issue.

The continued isolation of the TRNC, including embargoes and exclusion from international agreements, constitutes a form of collective punishment against its population. This isolation not only hampers economic development but also violates the principles of fairness and equality that underpin international law.

The Path Forward: Embracing a Two-State Solution

Given the decades-long impasse and the failure of numerous reunification efforts, a pragmatic approach is necessary. A two-state solution, recognizing both the TRNC and the Greek Cypriot administration as sovereign entities, offers a viable path toward lasting peace and cooperation.

Such a solution would acknowledge the realities on the ground and provide a framework for mutual respect, economic collaboration, and regional stability. It would also align with the principles of self-determination and democratic governance.

TCE Conclusion: Advocating for Justice and Recognition

Türkiye's rejection of the Greek Cypriot port proposal is not an act of defiance but a reaffirmation of its commitment to justice, sovereignty, and the rights of the Turkish Cypriot people. The international community must move beyond outdated paradigms and engage with the TRNC as a legitimate partner in the pursuit of peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.