Naveed Ahmed Khan Photo by Ramzan Mughal
Islamabad — The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) commemorated its 41st anniversary with a renewed emphasis on its sovereignty and milestones in international engagement. The celebration, hosted by TRNC Ambassador Dilsad Senol, reflected the enduring spirit of the Turkish Cypriot people and their commitment to self-determination, despite longstanding international challenges.
Established on November 15, 1983, the TRNC declared its independence as a testament to the Turkish Cypriot people’s right to determine their own destiny. Over the years, the republic has made significant strides in democracy, economy, education, and tourism, emerging as a key player in the Eastern Mediterranean region. However, unresolved political tensions and international isolation continue to pose obstacles to its aspirations.
The anniversary reception in Islamabad drew a distinguished gathering of diplomats, parliamentarians, and other dignitaries. Among them were former senators Muhammad Talha Mahmood, Mushahid Hussain Sayed, and Dr. Waseem Shahzad, alongside Türkiye’s Ambassador İrfan Neziroğlu. They lauded the TRNC’s achievements and pledged continued support for its quest for global recognition.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Senol highlighted the TRNC’s active participation in international bodies such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Organization of Turkic States. The TRNC recently gained observer status in the Turkic Council, marking a pivotal moment in its diplomatic journey.
“Despite these advancements, the unresolved Cyprus issue casts a long shadow over our progress,” said Senol. Decades of negotiations mediated by the United Nations for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation have repeatedly failed, with the ambassador attributing the impasse to the Greek Cypriot side’s reluctance to share power and resources.
Ambassador Senol expressed deep concern over the continued isolation imposed on Turkish Cypriots. “The Greek Cypriot administration obstructs our international engagement in fields such as sports, education, and humanitarian work while promoting anti-Turkish sentiment,” she stated. Recent provocations, including military build-ups in the buffer zone and violations of TRNC airspace, have further strained hopes for reconciliation.
In response, the TRNC has proposed a new vision for resolving the Cyprus conflict, advocating for the recognition of two sovereign states on the island. This approach aligns with Türkiye’s stance, reiterated by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the 79th UN General Assembly. Erdogan called on the global community to acknowledge the TRNC’s sovereignty and end the “inhumane isolations” faced by its people.
“As we celebrate Republic Day, we reiterate our call for justice and equality,” Ambassador Senol declared. “It is time for the world to recognize the reality of two states on the island and to lift the unjust sanctions imposed on the Turkish Cypriot people.” She extended heartfelt gratitude to Türkiye and Pakistan for their unwavering support, underscoring the importance of solidarity in the TRNC’s journey.
The anniversary served as both a celebration of past achievements and a platform to renew calls for international recognition and justice. Turkish Cypriots remain resolute in their pursuit of a future founded on equal rights and mutual respect, reaffirming their commitment to sovereignty in the face of persistent challenges.