In response, Athens’ diplomatic sources emphasized that “members of the Muslim minority in Thrace enjoy equality before the law and equal citizenship rights.” They clarified that “issues related to the rule of law and the protection of the human rights of Greek citizens are neither up for discussion nor could they be.”

The sources also addressed Erdoğan’s comments on the Cyprus issue, where he mentioned that “Ankara is committed to the struggle for the independence of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).”

The sources replied: “The perpetuation of the current status quo, with one-third of the island under occupation and the creation of two states, does not constitute a solution.” They added: “We remain committed to resolving the Cyprus problem within the framework of the UN Security Council resolutions, which envisage a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation. In this context, we support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his special envoy for the reunification of the island.”

What Erdoğan Said

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated his unfounded claims about a “Turkish minority” in Western Thrace during a speech to the AKP parliamentary group, marking the anniversary of the death of Ahmed Sadık, the founder of the DEB Party.

Erdoğan stated: “We owe a great deal to Sadık for what the ‘Turkish minority’ in Western Thrace has achieved. In our meetings with the Greek authorities, issues concerning our compatriots in Western Thrace are at the top of our agenda. We monitor issues related to religion, worship practices, and education. We will continue to protect the ‘Turkish minority’ in Western Thrace, as well as the Turkish Cypriots who have suffered injustice and discrimination for nearly three-quarters of a century since the 1960s.”

He continued with comments on Cyprus: “We cannot forget the burned villages, the murdered children, and the tragedies of our Turkish Cypriot brothers. When these atrocities occurred, the West did nothing. With the ‘peace operation’ (referring to Türkiye’s invasion of Cyprus), Turkey broke the hands of those who sought to undermine the independence of the Turkish Cypriots.”

Erdoğan concluded: “Unfortunately, no solution emerged from the negotiations. We and the Turkish Cypriots have clarified our position and declared that we are committed to the struggle for the independence of the TRNC.”