Krah’s Visit to Northern Cyprus
Maximilian Krah, a member of the German Federal Assembly, engaged in various meetings in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) at the invitation of the Republic Assembly. During his visit, he met with Ziya Öztürkler, the Speaker of the Republic Assembly, and Prime Minister Ünal Üstel. Krah brought attention to the issues faced by Turkish Cypriots, expressing that these problems are at an unacceptable level.
During his discussions in the TRNC, Krah highlighted the restrictions on freedom of movement and the barriers to participation in international sporting events. He emphasized that traveling to many countries without a second passport is impossible, pointing out that this situation negatively impacts the Turkish Cypriot community.
Öztürkler: Problems Must Be Acknowledged
Speaker of the Republic Assembly Ziya Öztürkler emphasized the importance of German parliamentarians visiting the TRNC during Krah’s visit. He criticized the rejection of the Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid Commission’s invitation to visit the TRNC on two occasions, stating that Krah’s meetings are critical for bringing the issues of Turkish Cypriots to the attention of the European public.
Öztürkler highlighted the need for the world to recognize the travel restrictions and isolation faced by Turkish Cypriots as soon as possible. He stated that all parliament members should observe the situation in Cyprus, believing it would raise awareness about international issues as well.
Krah’s Critiques
Krah addressed the Cyprus problem and potential solutions during his visit, emphasizing the need for all parties to come together. He underscored the historical dimension of the struggles faced by Turkish Cypriots, stating the importance of accurately reflecting this situation to the international community. He also mentioned that ongoing instability in the region hinders economic development.
Prime Minister Ünal Üstel reminded Krah of the significance of witnessing the realities of the Turkish Cypriot people during his visit. Üstel underscored that although the Turkish Cypriot side fulfills its responsibilities for a solution, it faces an uncompromising stance from the Greek Cypriot side. He insisted that recognition of sovereign equality is essential for a resolution.
Content of the Discussions
During his meeting with Krah, Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu conveyed the historical processes of the Cyprus issue. Ertuğruloğlu presented the Turkish Cypriot side’s vision for a two-state solution and provided information about the activities of the Immovable Property Commission, which is recognized by the European Court of Human Rights as an effective domestic legal avenue.
Krah also visited the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) to gather information about the party’s policies. In a one-hour meeting with CTP’s Secretary for Foreign Relations, Fikri Toros, and other representatives, they discussed new initiatives regarding the Cyprus solution process and property issues.
Source: www.diyaloggazetesi.com
