Bahçeli: Turkey will defend its interests and support Northern Cyprus

The leader of the Turkish Nationalist Movement Party, Devlet Bahçeli, stated that Ankara will continue to defend the right to existence of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and will not allow pressure on its interests in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Speaking to his party's parliamentary group, Bahçeli emphasized that Turkey's position does not depend on the approval of other states. He criticized Greece for its «maximalist demands» and stated that the Greek Cypriot side cannot represent the entire island.

The politician also touched upon regional security issues, expressing the opinion that the actions of individual countries, including France, Israel, Greece, and Cyprus, could contribute to rising tensions. According to him, any attempts to «encircle Turkey» will not go unanswered.

Bahçeli paid special attention to the Cyprus issue, calling it not only a subject of negotiations but also a matter of strategic importance related to security, maritime zones, and the future of Turkish Cypriots. He also noted the importance of demographic balance and economic independence on the island.

Furthermore, he stressed that property issues and economic changes in Cyprus are directly related to sovereignty and national security. At the same time, Bahçeli stated that while Turkey advocates for peace, it does not intend to ignore actions that could damage its interests in the region.