Ustel: People Also See Those Who Cannot Even Say ‘Welcome’ To The F-16s Sent To Protect Us

Ustel made the remarks during a visit to Lefke, where he met with residents and held consultations with civil society organisations.

Speaking during the visit, Ustel said the National Unity Party had never abandoned the government in difficult times and had always stood by the public.

“UBP has never left the government and abandoned its people. We have always stood with our people by struggling together with the Republic of Turkey,” he said.

Ustel thanked Turkey for what he described as its continued and active support, saying the government has delivered on most of its promises and implemented reforms that had not been carried out in the past.

Referring to the security situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, Ustel said developments in the region were being closely monitored and stressed that the greatest guarantee for the Turkish Cypriot people is Turkey.

He said Turkey has always stood by the Turkish Cypriots within the framework of its guarantor rights and noted that Ankara’s military and defence support remains important for the region.

Ustel also criticised those who have not voiced support for the F-16 fighter jets sent by Turkey.

“Do not be afraid… These fighting hawks will protect both you and us. Do not hesitate or worry. Thankfully, Turkey stands by our side,” he said.

During the visit, Ustel also addressed a number of domestic issues, including agriculture, infrastructure and digital transformation. He said measures had been taken to control the outbreak of Foot-and-mouth disease in the livestock sector and noted that animals had been vaccinated to bring the situation under control.

He added that the government has also taken steps to support the citrus sector and that producers were offered record prices for their products.

Highlighting infrastructure investments, Ustel said political stability had allowed the government to complete long-delayed projects, including the Guzelyurt–Lefke road after resolving expropriation issues.

He also emphasised the importance of the e-government project and the expansion of fibre-optic infrastructure, saying the initiatives would accelerate digital transformation and make public services more efficient.