Türkiye reaffirms support for Turkish Cypriots during Yilmaz’s visit to Lefkosia

Vice President of Türkiye Cevdet Yilmaz reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to the well-being and security of the Turkish Cypriot community during his visit to Ercan Airport in Lefkosia on Wednesday.

“We do not see the peace, prosperity, and security of the Turkish Cypriot people as separate from that of the Turkish nation. We have provided every possible support until now, and we will continue to do so,” Yilmaz said upon arrival.

He was welcomed at the airport by Prime Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Unal Ustel, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Lefkosia Ali Murat Basceri, and other officials.

He also emphasized Ankara’s continued commitment to supporting the TRNC’s just cause and economic development, recalling the March 21 signing of the 2025 Economic and Financial Cooperation Agreement in Ankara.

Economic cooperation agreement forms basis of talks

Yilmaz recalled the signing of the 2025 Economic and Financial Cooperation Agreement between Türkiye and the TRNC on March 21 in Ankara, Türkiye.

The agreement serves as the foundation for continued financial support and collaboration.

The visit aims to further discussions on economic, financial, and trade relations, with a focus on initiatives that will improve living conditions and raise prosperity in the TRNC.

Yilmaz and Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Murat Kurum are also expected to participate in meetings hosted by the Turkish Embassy in Lefkosia with various stakeholders.

Focus on private sector and justice for Turkish Cypriots

Vice President Yilmaz underlined plans to hold talks with business leaders to address the agenda of the TRNC private sector.

He also expressed Türkiye’s ongoing political support and said, “We will continue to stand by the just cause of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and support the justice struggle that the Turkish Cypriots carry forward with determination and faith.”

Ustel: $553,3K investment will boost growth in key sectors

Turkish Cyprus Prime Minister Unal Ustel noted that the recently signed agreement will secure ₺21 billion ($553.54 million) in funding, helping complete projects in health care, transportation, and infrastructure.

“Türkiye and the TRNC are strengthening their brotherhood on an unshakable foundation. Our relationship, built on mutual respect and cooperation, is creating synergy that increases our people’s prosperity and strengthens our country’s infrastructure,” Ustel stated.

Ustel said a new hospital in Lefkosia will begin construction, and Girne Hospital will be completed and opened later this year.

He also highlighted upcoming road projects, including the Lefkosia North Bypass, Karpaz Road, Catalkoy-Girne Road, and Degirmenlik-Girne Mountain Road, all expected to be completed within 2024.

Focus on institutional development and national identity

Prime Minister Ustel also announced the foundation-laying ceremony for the High Court building and the upcoming inaugurations of new Presidential and Parliament buildings.

“These buildings symbolize the institutionalization and rootedness of our state,” he said.

Türkiye and TRNC reinforce economic, social, and political ties

Yilmaz’s visit includes meetings with TRNC business leaders and local stakeholders to discuss private sector development and community welfare.

He reiterated Türkiye’s view that TRNC’s development and political rights are inseparable from Türkiye’s own national interests, “We will continue to stand by the just cause of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and support the justice struggle that the Turkish Cypriots carry forward with determination and faith.”