Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has commemorated the 52nd anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation, describing the 1974 military intervention as a historic act that secured the freedom, security and future of the Turkish Cypriot people. In a statement, he reaffirmed Türkiye’s determination to defend their rights.
A Historic Intervention
Fidan said that on this day 52 years ago, Türkiye acted in line with the 1960 Treaty of Guarantee, carrying out the operation alongside Turkish Cypriot resistance fighters. “Türkiye, shoulder to shoulder with our heroic Mujahideen, ensured the safety of our Turkish Cypriot brothers and sisters, who were facing the threat of annihilation, and guaranteed their presence on the island,” he said.
Commitment to Turkish Cypriots
The minister noted that Turkish Armed Forces laid the foundation for the peace and stability that have prevailed on the island for more than half a century. “Today, Turkish Cypriots continue their lives freely, honorably and securely under the roof of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus,” he said, adding: “As the motherland and guarantor, Türkiye will continue, as it has in the past, to resolutely defend the rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriot people.”