Celer Calls For Cooperation Among Left Parties

Speaking on a programme hosted by Nupelda Karabugday on Ada TV, Celer discussed a range of issues, from rising tensions in the Middle East and their potential impact on Cyprus to the government’s economic policies, the tax system, and the need for healthcare reform.

Celer warned that escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean pose serious risks for Cyprus and criticised steps taken by Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides to deepen international military cooperation.

He argued that opening airports and maritime areas in the south of the island to military aircraft and vessels from countries such as France and the United States has increased the island’s exposure to risk. Celer also noted the continued presence of British sovereign base areas in southern Cyprus, warning that any conflict in the region could affect the entire island.

“There is no guarantee that a missile launched from Iran would land only in southern Cyprus,” he said. “Such threats affect the whole island. Borders do not protect us from these risks.”

Celer stressed that Cyprus should not become part of regional military competition and said the island should instead become a symbol of peace and dialogue in the long term.

Turning to domestic issues, Celer criticised the economic policies of the coalition government formed by the National Unity Party, the Yeniden Dogus Partisi, and the Democrat Party, arguing that recent economic packages have focused mainly on cutting expenses rather than increasing revenues.

He also criticised recent fuel price increases, saying the decision placed additional pressure on the public at a time when global oil prices were falling.

Celer warned that the next government formed after the first elections could inherit a severe economic burden, estimating that budget deficits of between 25 and 30 billion Turkish lira could await the new administration based on projections for 2025 and 2026.

Discussing tax policy, Celer said governments often seek to increase revenue by raising tax rates, but argued that this approach can backfire. Instead, he said, lower tax rates combined with stronger oversight could create a fairer and more effective tax system.

“People look for ways to avoid taxes when rates rise,” he said. “If you lower tax rates and establish a fair inspection system, both tax revenues increase and the cost of living declines.”

Celer also stressed that economic development cannot rely solely on fiscal measures and called for a production-oriented economic model, highlighting the importance of strengthening agriculture, livestock farming, and industry alongside tourism and education.

He emphasised the need to strengthen the local workforce, arguing that a large portion of the income earned by foreign workers ultimately leaves the country, while encouraging local employment would help keep money circulating within the domestic economy.

Celer said Cyprus also has significant tourism potential that has not been fully utilised and stressed the importance of using digital communication platforms more effectively to increase international visibility.

Addressing the upcoming elections, Celer said society increasingly wants left-wing parties to work together. While the electoral system does not allow formal alliances, he said the parties could still present a shared commitment to cooperation after the elections.

“Society now wants to see a social democratic government,” Celer said. “We are continuing our efforts in that direction.”

He also highlighted the importance of digitalisation in public administration, saying the use of body cameras by police officers is a positive step and noting that the TDP is carrying out work on digitalisation and digital recognition within the party.