Üstel: “Hostile steps from the south undermine trust between Cyprus communities”

The Prime Minister of Northern Cyprus, Ünal Üstel, stated that recent actions and rhetoric from the Greek Cypriot administration indicate growing tension and a persistent hostile attitude toward the Turkish Cypriot population. According to him, this is particularly evident in public statements and initiatives that he considers directed against the symbols and identity of Turkish Cypriots.

At the center of criticism were Greek Cypriot press reports about the need to remove the TRNC flag from the mountains as part of so-called “confidence-building measures.” Üstel called these calls unacceptable, emphasizing that the flag is a symbol of the Turkish Cypriot people's independence and is not subject to discussion.

He also sharply condemned initiatives to rename streets named after the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. In particular, he mentioned the decision to rename Atatürk Street in Paphos, calling it a manifestation of a hostile approach.

Üstel noted that such actions under the guise of building trust actually destroy it and intensify the division between the two communities. He emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot side will continue to protect its symbols, statehood, and ties with Turkey.

According to him, the Turkish Cypriot people expect mutual respect and emphasize that they have always respected the religious and national symbols of the other side. In conclusion, he stated that the flag on the Five Finger Mountains will remain an unchanging symbol of the presence of Turkish Cypriots on the island.