New provocative statements on Greek-Turkish relations and the Cyprus issue were made by Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, who observed the naval-air exercise “Blue Homeland” aboard the frigate Salihreis.

“Everyone, especially our neighbor, must be assured that we wish to see the Mediterranean and the Aegean as regions of stability and prosperity, and we believe this will benefit our countries and peoples. However, while striving for a peaceful solution, we emphasize that we will never compromise when it comes to our national rights and interests,” Yaşar Güler stated.

Referring to Turkey’s position at the heart of a region surrounded by conflicts and disputes, Yaşar Güler stressed that Turkey consistently advocates for international law and peace as the foundation for preventing tensions and resolving crises and problems.

The Turkish Defense Minister further stated:
“We approach the development of our relations with our neighboring Greece within the framework of these principles and are taking significant steps to resolve problems. We believe that a solution-oriented approach, as well as sincere and constructive relations, will benefit both countries. However, some distort the concept of international law and attempt to present certain political narratives as legal realities. In fact, efforts to portray Turkey’s determination to protect its rights and interests in the ‘Blue Homeland’ as historical expansionism and aggression are futile attempts to ignore the rights recognized by international law. This is nothing but a distortion of existing realities.”

Accusations Against Cyprus for Exploiting the Middle East Crisis
On the Cyprus issue, he reiterated that “the only definitive solution must be based on the fact that there are two separate states and two separate peoples on the island, as is now being increasingly recognized by international public opinion,” describing the “50-year-old rhetoric” as outdated and inconsistent, as he said, “with historical and current realities.”

The Turkish Defense Minister accused the Republic of Cyprus of attempting to exploit the crisis in the Middle East and engaging in “destabilizing activities conducted under the guise of humanitarian aid,” as well as “arming efforts aimed at disrupting the balance of power on the island.”

He also accused “certain allies” of encouraging the “Greek Cypriot Administration” in its negative stance, claiming that such behavior “is incompatible with the spirit of the Alliance.”

“Cyprus is our national issue. In this regard, we will continue to support the legitimate interests of the Turkish Cypriots under all circumstances and do our utmost for the peace, security, and prosperity of the island in accordance with the conditions of the guarantee and alliance treaties,” concluded Turkey’s Defense Minister, Yaşar Güler.