Messages on the role of Turkey and the Turkish Armed Forces for global security, peace and stability across a broad geography and references to Greece and Cyprus and to the “Blue Homeland” includes the New Year’s message of Turkish Defense Minister, Yasar Guler.

Significantly, in his message, Turkey’s Defense Minister, who has as his top priority the fight against “terrorism” and developments in Syria, immediately afterwards makes a special reference to Greek-Turkish relations, stating that the aim is the peaceful resolution of the disputes, but also warns that Turkey will defend its interests.

“We are adopting a peaceful attitude to solve our problems with our neighbour Greece, with which we have recently enjoyed positive relations, and we are trying to make the Aegean Sea a sea of friendship and peace. However, we express at every opportunity that we will never compromise our national rights and interests and that we are determined to protect our rights and justice.”

Immediately afterwards, he prioritizes the issue of Cyprus and support for the pseudo-state: “…provide all kinds of support to our sister Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (sic), with which we are one heart, and support the legitimate interests of our Cypriot brothers and sisters under any circumstances. We continue to do our best for the peace, security and prosperity of the island in accordance with the Treaties of Guarantee and Alliance.”

The Turkish Defense Minister also noted in his message that the Turkish Armed Forces, in addition to our fight against terrorism, continue without compromise to protect the rights and interests in the “Blue” and “Aerial” Homeland.