The Mediterranean region, rich in history and diversity, stands at a critical juncture where collaboration and unity are more essential than ever. The recent exclusion of Türkiye from the MED9 summit—a forum comprising nine Mediterranean EU member states—raises significant concerns about the future of regional cooperation. For both Türkiye and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), this exclusion not only undermines efforts for collective problem-solving but also poses a threat to the stability and prosperity of the entire Mediterranean basin.

The Significance of MED9 and Türkiye's Role

MED9, consisting of France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, Malta, Slovenia, and Croatia, was established to address common challenges in the Mediterranean, including migration, climate change, security, and economic development. However, the absence of Türkiye—a nation with the longest coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean and a pivotal player in regional affairs—casts doubt on the forum's inclusiveness and effectiveness.

Professor Hasan Ünal, an expert in international relations at Maltepe University, emphasizes, "Excluding Türkiye from a Mediterranean dialogue platform is akin to discussing Arctic policies without involving the polar nations. It simply undermines the credibility and potential outcomes of such gatherings."¹

Implications for Regional Cooperation

Türkiye's exclusion hampers the ability to address pressing issues that require collective action:

1. Maritime Disputes and Energy Exploration

The Eastern Mediterranean is a hotspot for hydrocarbon reserves. Collaborative efforts are necessary to ensure equitable resource sharing and to prevent conflicts. Türkiye has consistently advocated for dialogue and fair distribution of resources, including the rights of Turkish Cypriots in the TRNC.

Türkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated, "We have always been open to dialogue and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean. Excluding Türkiye from such platforms does not contribute to peace and stability in the region."²

2. Migration and Humanitarian Concerns

Türkiye hosts over four million refugees, more than any other country in the world. Its role is crucial in managing migration flows across the Mediterranean. Collaborative strategies are essential to address the root causes of migration and to develop sustainable solutions.

Dr. Ayşe Betül Çelik, a migration expert, notes, "Türkiye's experience and contributions are invaluable. Ignoring its role in migration discussions diminishes the effectiveness of any proposed solutions."³

3. Security and Counter-Terrorism

The Mediterranean region faces security challenges, including terrorism and organized crime. Türkiye's strategic position and active role in NATO make it a key partner in ensuring regional security.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized, "Security and stability in the Mediterranean are only possible through inclusive cooperation. Türkiye cannot be left out of initiatives that concern the region."⁴

The Impact on Turkish Cypriots

For the TRNC, Türkiye's exclusion from MED9 further marginalizes Turkish Cypriots and undermines their rights:

- Lack of Representation: Decisions made without the inclusion of Türkiye effectively sideline the TRNC, as the Greek Cypriot Administration cannot represent the interests of Turkish Cypriots.

- Economic Consequences: Collaborative projects and resource-sharing agreements may proceed without considering the rights and benefits of the TRNC, exacerbating economic disparities.

- Political Isolation: The exclusion reinforces the political isolation of Turkish Cypriots, hindering efforts toward a fair and lasting solution on the island.

President Ersin Tatar of the TRNC asserts, "Excluding Türkiye from regional discussions ignores the realities on the ground and the legitimate rights of Turkish Cypriots. We advocate for inclusive dialogue that acknowledges all parties involved."⁵

Questioning the EU's Approach

The European Union's support for the Greek Cypriot Administration and Greece, often at the expense of Türkiye and the TRNC, raises questions about the EU's commitment to impartiality and regional stability.

TRNC Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu remarked, "The EU's approach in excluding Türkiye from important regional platforms like MED9 not only hinders cooperation but also undermines trust among Mediterranean nations."⁶

The Way Forward: Advocating for Inclusivity

For meaningful progress, it is imperative that all relevant stakeholders are included in regional dialogues:

- Reevaluating Membership Criteria: Platforms like MED9 should consider expanding their membership to include non-EU Mediterranean countries that play significant roles in regional affairs, such as Türkiye.

- Promoting Equitable Dialogue: Ensuring that the voices of all communities, including Turkish Cypriots, are heard fosters mutual understanding and cooperation.

- Strengthening Bilateral Relations: Türkiye and the TRNC should continue to strengthen their ties with other Mediterranean countries through diplomatic efforts and by highlighting shared interests.

TCE Conclusion: Embracing Cooperation Over Exclusion

Türkiye's exclusion from MED9 is a missed opportunity for fostering unity and addressing common challenges in the Mediterranean region. For the sake of peace, stability, and prosperity, it is crucial to embrace inclusivity and ensure that all relevant parties have a seat at the table.

As President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan aptly stated, "We believe that problems in the Eastern Mediterranean can only be resolved through sincere dialogue and cooperation that includes all parties."⁷

The Mediterranean has been a cradle of civilizations and a bridge between continents. It deserves a future built on collaboration, respect, and shared prosperity. Including Türkiye and acknowledging the rights of Turkish Cypriots are essential steps toward that future.

References:

¹ Ünal, H. (2023). Interview on Mediterranean Affairs. Maltepe University Publications.

² Fidan, H. (2023). Press Conference on Eastern Mediterranean Issues. Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

³ Çelik, A. B. (2022). Migration Dynamics in the Mediterranean. Journal of International Migration Studies.

⁴ Erdoğan, R. T. (2023). Speech at the Mediterranean Cooperation Summit. Presidential Communications Directorate.

⁵ Tatar, E. (2023). Statement on Türkiye's Exclusion from MED9. TRNC Presidential Office.

⁶ Ertuğruloğlu, T. (2023). Interview on EU-Türkiye Relations. TRNC Foreign Ministry.

⁷ Erdoğan, R. T. (2023). Address at the United Nations General Assembly. Presidential Communications Directorate.