President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended the inauguration of the Republic Complex in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), marking a significant milestone for the region.
Speaking at the ceremony, Erdogan highlighted the importance of the new development as a symbol of determination and unity for the Turkish Cypriot people.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, President Erdogan declared, "Türkiye will always stand by your side whenever you need us," reinforcing the strong bond between Türkiye and the Turkish Cypriot community.
Erdogan's words echoed throughout his speech as a commitment to the shared future of Türkiye and Turkish Cyprus, emphasizing that this complex symbolizes not only a new physical structure but also a symbol of their collective will, determination, and resilience.
Erdogan further remarked, "Today, we are stamping another seal on these lands. We are bringing another magnificent creation to the Turkish Cypriot people," underlining the significance of the Republic Complex as a reflection of the Turkish Cypriot people's enduring strength.
During his address, President Erdogan expressed his pride in being in Turkish Cyprus once again for this meaningful occasion. "Today, we are stamping another seal on these lands. We are bringing another magnificent creation to the Turkish Cypriot people," he said. He emphasized that the Republic Complex was not just an opening of a building but also a declaration of will, resolve, and love for freedom.
The complex, which began construction in 2022, spans an area of 639,475 square meters and will house the Presidential Palace, the Republic Assembly, the Supreme Court, and a national garden. Erdogan noted that while the Presidential Palace and the Republic Assembly were inaugurated today, future phases will include the national garden, mosque, and the Supreme Court buildings.
Erdogan called the Republic Complex a symbol of the Turkish Cypriot people's determination. "This place also represents the manifestation of a state's will to exist in the face of injustices and lawlessness. It is a testament to the shared destiny of Türkiye and Northern Cyprus," he stated.
He also reassured the people of Turkish Cyprus of Türkiye's unwavering support, saying, "I want you to know that, just as in the past, Türkiye will always stand by your side whenever you need us."
President Erdogan spoke out against those who seek to sow division and hatred, stating that efforts to undermine the bond between Türkiye and Turkish Cyprus will not succeed. "Those who try to break our brotherhood, divide us, and sow seeds of hatred in these fertile lands will not succeed," he said.
He reaffirmed Ankara's commitment to continuing strong support in various areas, from strengthening relations with the Turkic world to ending the unjust isolation of the Turkish Cypriot people.
"With these thoughts in mind, I extend my gratitude to every brother who contributed their labor and efforts in the construction of this complex," Erdogan added, specifically praising Türkiye's Housing and Development Administration (TOKI) for their role.
President Erdogan's visit to Turkish Cyprus, which also included participation in the Teknofest TRNC award ceremony, has raised concerns in the Greek Cypriot administration.
Greek Cypriot government spokesperson Konstantinos Letimbiotis described the visit as a sign of Türkiye's approach to a two-state solution on the island. He emphasized that the Greek Cypriot administration is closely monitoring the developments and maintaining diplomatic contact with the European Union and other international actors.