The planned natural gas pipeline between Turkey and the occupied areas of Cyprus is targeted for completion by 2028, Ziya Ozturkler, the north’s so-called parliamentary speaker, has said.
Speaking in Malatya, Turkey, Ozturkler described the project as important for the energy security and welfare of Turkish Cypriots. He said the issue had recently been discussed in Ankara between Unal Ustel, the “prime minister” in the north, and Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz.
Ozturkler was addressing a conference titled “The Cyprus Issue From the Past to the Future and Our National Cause.” During his speech, he claimed that a “strong Republic of Turkey means a strong TRNC,” referring to the breakaway entity in the occupied areas, which is recognised only by Turkey.
He also described ties between Turkey and the occupied areas as “unbreakable.”
Referring to the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, Ozturkler claimed it had been a “turning point for the existence of the Turkish Cypriot people,” arguing that the military operation ensured their survival.
He also pointed to projects such as the new illegal airport in Tymbou, hospitals and infrastructure works as examples of Turkey’s support for the occupied areas.
During his visit to Malatya, Ozturkler also met Zorlu Topaloglu, commander of Turkey’s 2nd Army. According to reports, they discussed Cyprus-related issues and the activities of the military command.
Source: CNA
