Erdoğan pledges Türkiye to stand by Northern Cyprus

Türkiye has reaffirmed that it will never leave the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) to stand alone.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan made the remarks in a message marking the 42nd anniversary of the TRNC’s declaration of independence, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

“Our national struggle will never leave Cyprus on its own, and we will continue to strengthen our solidarity with the Turkish people of Cyprus in all areas,” Erdoğan said.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) declared independence on 15 November 1983, though it is recognised only by Türkiye.

Over the years, Türkiye has played a central role as guarantor state, supporting TRNC politically, diplomatically, and economically. 

In recent years, Ankara has emphasised a two‑state solution to the Cyprus issue, asserting that both Turkish and Greek Cypriots are equal partners on the island.

During his visits to Northern Cyprus, President Erdoğan has inaugurated major infrastructure projects — including a new presidential complex and a large-scale water supply project — underlining Türkiye’s long-term investment in the TRNC. 

He has also strongly condemned attempts to isolate Turkish Cypriots, pledging that Türkiye will continue to “stand firmly” by their side.

By Aghakazim Guliyev