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Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President Ersin Tatar said his country is "the key to stability in the Eastern Mediterranean" as he called on the international community, particularly the United Kingdom, to establish direct flights, trade and contact with the TRNC.
Speaking at a press conference at Ercan Airport after returning from London, President Tatar detailed his meetings with British officials, including U.K. Minister of State for Europe and North America Stephen Doughty.
During his U.K. visit, Tatar discussed the TRNC's political position and addressed tensions created by the Greek Cypriot side, including arrests of individuals who purchased property in the TRNC.
"We conveyed messages that the U.K. needs to review its policy on the Cyprus issue," Tatar said. "After Brexit, we expect different developments in relations with the U.K. on behalf of the Turkish Cypriot people."
The president highlighted the significant demographic connections between the two nations, noting that 300,000 Turkish Cypriots live in the U.K. while nearly 30,000 British citizens reside in the TRNC.
"Unfortunately, developments with the U.K. have not reached the level we desired until today," Tatar stated.
Tatar announced that the Cyprus Foundation Administration (EVKAF) would provide support to Turkish language departments and cultural schools in the U.K., demonstrating the TRNC's commitment to its diaspora community.
The TRNC leader emphasized his administration's push for what he termed the "3D" formula from the international community:
"The TRNC is the key to stability in the Eastern Mediterranean," Tatar said, adding: "Neither Cyprus nor the Eastern Mediterranean is what it used to be. Guarantor motherland Türkiye is the largest and most powerful country in this region."
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