Üstel: Akansoy’s Criticism of Fidan Is “Unwarranted and Unfortunate”

Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV’s “Sabah Postası” program hosted by Gökhan Altıner, Üstel also addressed governance performance, energy projects, economic indicators, and political debates over the Cyprus issue.

Üstel said his government came to office after the pandemic period and managed to ensure political stability despite global instability. He argued that this stability allowed progress in both the economy and the parliament, adding that the current administration has entered its fifth year in office.

He stressed that more legislation had been passed than during the 2013–2020 period, which saw seven different governments. “What has this government done? No other government has achieved what this administration has done, nor has any other government ensured such stability,” he said.

Energy Projects And EU Vetos

Üstel said a new energy structure is being developed, including an interconnector system and green energy cooperation with Turkey. He stated that necessary protocols have been prepared and feasibility studies completed, while approval from the European Union is still pending.

He claimed that both Greece and the Republic of Cyprus have been blocking the project for about one and a half years through vetoes, and argued that this reflects the political stance of the Greek Cypriot side.

Natural Gas Infrastructure Timeline

Üstel announced that a protocol will be signed on 1 July with Turkey’s Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz during his visit to the TRNC, and that construction of gas pipelines is expected to begin by October.

He said the aim is to convert power plants to natural gas, reducing costs and improving environmental outcomes. According to him, the project is expected to be completed by 2029. He also invited the Republic of Cyprus to participate, claiming it has so far responded negatively.

Economic Performance Claims

Responding to questions about public sector wages and economic stability, Üstel said salaries have reached their highest level in history in dollar terms and that the minimum wage has also reached record levels.

He asked rhetorically whether the Ministry of Finance has ever failed to pay salaries, adding that major infrastructure and healthcare reforms have been implemented and support to entrepreneurs has increased. He also claimed that employment has risen from 80,000 to 120,000.

Election Timing Debate

On the possibility of holding parliamentary and local elections on the same day, Üstel said such a move would benefit the country. He argued that citizens going to the polls once instead of twice would be more efficient.

He added that the government is not in a hurry and that ongoing projects must be completed before elections. “Let’s complete our projects, there is no rush,” he said.

Response To Akansoy Over Fidan Remarks

Commenting directly on Akansoy’s criticism of Fidan, Üstel said the remarks were “unwarranted and unfortunate.”

He stated that Turkey has repeatedly declared that a federal solution is no longer on the agenda, noting that both the Turkish Grand National Assembly and the TRNC Assembly have adopted positions supporting a two-state model.

He argued that critics should respect differing views and suggested that questioning Turkey’s foreign policy could provoke a direct response: “Will you decide Turkey’s foreign policy?”

Üstel described Fidan’s statements as a clear expression of the “reality in Cyprus” to the international community.

Relations With Azerbaijan

Üstel also highlighted recent contacts with Azerbaijan, saying the TRNC was received with state protocol during his visit. He described the relationship as part of the “one nation, three states” vision.

He said cultural events in Azerbaijan provide an important opportunity for promotion and tourism growth, and added that upcoming charter flights are expected to further strengthen bilateral relations.

Final Remarks On Cost Of Living

Responding to questions about inflation and cost-of-living adjustments, Üstel said his government has never failed to implement such payments on time.

“Rest assured, have we ever delayed cost-of-living adjustments?” he said, adding that detailed explanations would be provided when necessary.