Bahçeli: Turkey Will Not Leave Turkish Cypriots’ Rights To Others’ Mercy

Speaking at his party’s parliamentary group meeting, Bahçeli addressed developments related to Cyprus and broader regional dynamics, underlining that the issue should not be seen merely as a diplomatic matter but as part of Turkey’s strategic depth in the Eastern Mediterranean.

He said the demographic structure, property regime, economic independence and security of the TRNC should be treated as a national issue, adding that Turkey will continue to safeguard the rights of Turkish Cypriots.

Bahçeli also proposed the establishment of a “Peace Process and Politicisation Coordination Office” within parliament, while emphasising that Turkey’s foreign policy prioritises peace and stability but will not remain silent in the face of faits accomplis against its interests.

“Turkey’s stance in favour of peace does not mean it will remain silent in the face of developments against us in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Aegean and Cyprus,” he said.

He warned that security and energy-driven alliances involving France, Greece, the Greek Cypriot Administration and Israel in the Eastern Mediterranean should be closely monitored, adding that any attempts to encircle Turkey or sideline Turkish Cypriots would not go unanswered.

Bahçeli criticised what he described as maximalist positions by Greece and questioned the legitimacy of the Greek Cypriot Administration speaking on behalf of the entire island.

He stressed that issues such as land ownership, foreign property acquisitions and economic influence in Cyprus cannot be treated as ordinary commercial matters, saying they may directly affect sovereignty and security.

“Land is not merely a title deed; it can represent sovereignty, security and the rights of future generations,” he said.

Bahçeli added that Turkish Cypriots and TRNC authorities should act with historical awareness and responsibility, warning against what he described as illusions tied to the European Union.

He concluded by reiterating that Turkey will continue to protect the existence and rights of the TRNC, defend its legitimate interests in the Eastern Mediterranean, and uphold the balance in the Aegean.