Erdogan Calls for Two States From North Cyprus

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan renewed his support for a two-state solution during his visit to the northern part of Cyprus.

Erdogan accused the Greek Cypriot authorities of lack of integrity in finding a solution to the divided Mediterranean island.

In a speech in northern Nicosia, Erdogan said, "The new negotiation process can only be carried out between the two states. We are right, and we will defend our right to the end."

Erdogan condemned what he called the ‘lies’ of the European Union, who previously stated it will never accept a two-state solution.

Cyprus has been divided since the Turkish army invaded the northern third of its territories in 1974, while the republic joined the European Union in 2004, whose benefits are limited to the southern part of the island where Greek Cypriots live. The southern part of Cyprus is ruled by the only authority recognized by the United Nations. In the north, Ankara only recognizes the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

After years of unsuccessful UN-backed efforts to resume talks, the most prominent of which in Switzerland in 2017, Erdogan is demanding the establishment of two states and the international community's recognition of Northern Cyprus.