Turkish Cypriot leader and National Unity Party (UBP) chairman Ünal Üstel has criticised the United States' decision to extend for another year its waiver allowing the sale of defence equipment to the Republic of Cyprus, describing the move as a direct security concern for Turkish Cypriots.
In a written statement, Üstel argued that the decision facilitates the military build-up of the Greek Cypriot side and affects what he described as the strategic balance on the island and the stability of the Eastern Mediterranean.
'Turkey's guarantees are not up for discussion'
Üstel said the Turkish Cypriot side would not accept any discussion regarding Turkey's guarantor role or military presence on the island.
"We will not open Turkey's effective and actual guarantee for discussion. We will not allow the presence of Turkish soldiers on the island to become a subject of negotiation. We will not surrender our sovereignty, our state or the security of our people," he said.
Concerns over regional security
According to Üstel, the region is entering an increasingly uncertain period marked by expanding conflicts and accelerating militarisation in the Eastern Mediterranean.
He argued that instability generated by Israel's policies is directly affecting Cyprus' security environment and claimed that the Greek Cypriot side has chosen military strengthening rather than pursuing de-escalation.
Üstel further asserted that increased armament on the island poses a direct threat to Turkish Cypriot security and to what he described as the delicate balance in the Eastern Mediterranean.
He warned that the next decade could bring serious security challenges to the region.
Claims of economic pressure
The Turkish Cypriot leader also alleged that Turkish Cypriots face pressure beyond the security sphere.
He claimed that property-related disputes are being used as political and economic tools and argued that businesspeople, investors and ordinary citizens are being intimidated through international arrest warrants, with the aim of undermining the investment climate and weakening the economy.
Talks with Turkey
Üstel said the administration in the north is closely monitoring developments and has discussed regional security issues with Turkey.
According to his statement, discussions have included the changing military balance in the Eastern Mediterranean, defence developments relating to the Republic of Cyprus and wider regional security dynamics.
He added that work is continuing on measures considered necessary for the security of the Turkish Cypriot community and institutions.
Source: CNA
