Üstel: “It Is Our Responsibility to Take All Necessary Measures to Protect Our Citizens”

According to a statement from the Prime Ministry, Üstel said after the visit: “We discussed with our Civil Defence leadership the measures that can be taken in case the TRNC is affected by rising military tensions in the region, yesterday’s attacks on British bases, and possible future developments. During the meeting, we reviewed civil defence capacity, emergency planning, and inter-agency coordination mechanisms in detail.”

Üstel emphasized the delicate security balance in the Eastern Mediterranean, noting that the active use of British bases on the island by third countries’ military operations effectively turns Cyprus into part of ongoing conflicts. He warned that any such move endangers all people living on the island, adding that the privileges granted by the Greek Cypriot administration to other foreign armed forces further increase the risks across the island.

Highlighting that all state institutions are closely monitoring the situation, Üstel stressed that protecting the security of TRNC citizens is a fundamental responsibility, and all necessary precautions must be taken.

“All Parties Must Uphold Ceasefires and Diplomacy as Civilians Suffer and Displacement Increases”

The Prime Minister drew attention to the human cost of war, saying that in a process where civilians are harmed, people are forced to flee, economies are shaken, and regional instability deepens, all parties must prioritize ceasefires and diplomatic measures.

Üstel also referenced Turkey’s diplomatic efforts, noting the critical role of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Hakan Fidan in pursuing silencing of weapons and the use of diplomatic channels, emphasizing that these initiatives are of vital importance for regional peace and should be recognized by the international community.