Üstel Condemns Flag Burning, Says “We Will Continue To Exist On This Land Forever”

In a written statement, Üstel said recent developments in the South of Cyprus show that a dangerous mindset targeting peace, stability, and coexistence on the island is being revived.

He said presenting crimes committed by the EOKA organisation as “heroism” distorts historical truth and amounts to the systematic promotion of hatred and hostility.

Üstel described the adoption of this narrative by the Greek Cypriot administration and certain political and religious figures as “unacceptable irresponsibility,” adding that the rhetoric used by Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides, Archbishop Georgios of the Greek Orthodox Church, some Greek Cypriot politicians, and certain international actors fuels tensions on the island.

He warned that hate speech is poisoning younger generations and endangering the future of Cyprus.

Referring to the burning of the flags of the Republic of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus during Easter celebrations, Üstel said the act was a clear provocation and a sign of disrespect toward the Turkish Cypriot people, strongly condemning it.

He added that such developments undermine dialogue efforts and damage trust between the sides, stressing that the current mindset has not changed.

On the Cyprus issue, Üstel reiterated that the only realistic and sustainable solution is based on sovereign equality and equal international status for the Turkish Cypriot people.

He said the Turkish Cypriot community will continue to live securely under its own state and under Turkey’s guarantorship, adding that no threat or provocation can change this determination.

Üstel also emphasized full solidarity with Turkey and called on the Greek Cypriot side to act responsibly, abandon hate speech, and adopt a more constructive approach.

Concluding his statement, he said: “We will continue to exist on this land forever.”