Ozturkler: Cyprus' defense agreements negatively affect balances

The "president" of the "assembly," Ziya Ozturkler, claimed that the defense agreements of the Republic of Cyprus negatively affect the balances. In statements to a Turkish channel, Mr. Ozturkler referred to Cyprus' agreements with Israel and Greece, arguing that they turn the island into a "weapons depot" and bring foreign troops for "military training."

Furthermore, he stated that the statements of the Greek Cypriot side are "contradictory" as they demand the withdrawal of the "army" while strengthening their defense. He supported the importance of Turkish guarantees and the presence of the occupying army for the pseudo-state.

Mr. Ozturkler also claimed that the military activities of the Republic of Cyprus affect the Turkish Cypriots and that cooperation with Israel and Greece poses risks to the region. Referring to Cyprus' assumption of the EU Presidency, he said that the Republic of Cyprus is the "spoiled child of Brussels" and reiterated the need to recognize the "TRNC" as a "sovereign state."

Source: CNA