TURKISH
CYPRIOT AND TURKISH MEDIA REVIEW
C
O N T E N T S
No. 217/15 14-16.11.2015
1. The “high court” in the occupied area of Cyprus
rules that the occupied fenced off city of Varosha is not an EVKAF
property
2. Akinci: The negotiations in Cyprus cannot continue
forever having no result
3. Turkes claimed that the system of guarantees
safeguarded the peace and security in Cyprus for the last 41 years
4. Akinci to foreign journalists: It is not the end of
the world if a solution is not reached by May 2016, but we must make use of the
momentum
5. A Turkish General YasarGuler paid an illegal visit
to the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus
6. Davutoglu: “Turkey’s first priority is to make
northern Cyprus develop stability”
7. Kalyoncu’s contacts with foreign delegations
visiting the occupation regime for the UDI
8. Colak and Akinci met with foreign delegations in
the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus
9. Sibel and Akinci met with foreign parliamentarians
10. Turkish warships and airplanes violated Cyprus’
territorial waters and airspace for the UDI
11. Celebration ceremony in Budapest for the 32nd
anniversary of the establishment of the UDI
12. A German Deputy proposed the establishment of a
“friendship group” between Germany and the occupation regime
13. Akansoy: Deryneia crossing point to open in seven
months, Apliki crossing point to open in sixteen months
14. "KITSAB" attended the 49th UFTAA general
congress in Brussels
15. Religious tourism in the breakaway regime
16. New illegal universities in the breakaway regime
17. Ban discussed with Erdogan the Cyprus issue
18. Turkey says it foiled an Istanbul terror plot on
same day as Paris attacks
19. The Prime Minister has the responsibility of
representing the country in the G20 meeting, which was overshadowed by
restrictions on media and free enterprise
1. The “high court” in the occupied area of Cyprus
rules that the occupied fenced off city of Varosha is not an EVKAF
property
Under the title
“Shocking decision for Varosha”, Turkish Cypriot daily Havadis newspaper
(14.11.15) reported that the so-called
high administrative court in the occupied area of Cyprus has taken a decision
in a case examined since 2012, which will pave the way of about 500 Greek
Cypriot refugees, who had applied to the “Property Compensation Commission” for
their properties in the occupied fenced off city of Varosha. In the lawsuit
filed by Greek Cypriot Michaelides Brothers Company, the “high administrative court” described as “null and void” the
decision of the “Property Compensation Commission” to include in the case the
EVKAF religious foundation as “party concerned”.
The decision of
the “court” says, inter alia, the following: “It has been ruled that the decision which included the EVKAF
Organization and the Religious Affairs Department as ‘party concerned’ in the
application and/or the procedures held according to this decision are fully
void and/or ineffective and will not cause any result”.
According to the
paper, the decision will constitute a
precedent for many cases to re-open and the properties in the occupied fenced
off city of Varosha will not be considered as “EVKAF properties” from now
on, “until it is proved that they belong to EVKAF”. Thus the Greek Cypriot
applications could proceed to result in return, compensation and exchange of
property, notes Havadis.
(I/Ts.)
2. Akinci: The negotiations in Cyprus cannot
continue forever having no result
Turkish Cypriot
daily Kibris Postasi newspaper (16.11.15) reports that Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci has expressed the belief
that “the negotiating process in Cyprus which continues since 1968 has reached
a turning point” and that the negotiations cannot continue forever without
having any result. Addressing a ceremony yesterday in the occupied part of
Nicosia before the military parade within the framework of the celebrations for
the 32nd anniversary of the unilateral declaration of independence
(UDI), Akinci argued that achieving a
solution is more difficult today comparing to a decade ago and added that a
decade later finding a solution will be perhaps impossible within the framework
which is being discussed today. Akinci said that it would be “wise” to make use of the existing opportunity in the best
manner for the sake of the future generations.
Akinci argued
that they are acting with good will and determination for finding a federal
solution and they attach great importance to the political equality, the need
for security and the bi-zonality. He further expressed the view that the
solution will be viable in case lessons are taken from what had been
experienced on the island.
The Turkish Cypriot leader alleged that the effort to
strengthen the “TRNC”, as he described the breakaway regime in the occupied
area of Cyprus, is not tantamount to strengthening the division of the island,
but to preparing for an “equal and powerful cooperation”.The Greek Cypriot side
must understand now this plain truth, he claimed.
Criticizing
statements made in the Greek Cypriot side that the federation is not “the ideal
solution” and that it is a “painful compromise”, Akinci argued that “this
statement is extremely annoying and gives a negative message to the Greek
Cypriot community”.
Akinci went on
and described as an “undisputable right of the Turkish Cypriots” to create
their own “state structure” as “Turkish Cypriot people” since December 1963,
when they had been allegedly excluded from the Republic of Cyprus. Referring to
the “UDI”, Akinci said that in the so-called declaration of independence of the
breakaway regime it is noted that this development will not prevent the
negotiations and “the establishment of a federation of two equal peoples”.
Akinci pointed
out: “The negotiations which have been
held for almost half a century cannot continue forever having not result.
Therefore, the wise thing to do for now is to make use of the existing
opportunity in the best manner for the sake of the future generations. In this
road of wisdom we are acting with good will and determination for the
establishment of a bi-zonal bi-communal federation based on the political
equality of the two founding states the soonest, being in close consultation
with Turkey and with our other institutions and the civil society. Our
stance on this issue is seen both by you our esteemed people and the
international community”.
Akinci
underlined that they attach importance to the acceptance by the people in both
communities of the solution to be found, adding that “therefore we attach
special importance to the political equality, the need for security and the
bi-zonality”. He also expressed the
belief that the Turkish Cypriots’ right to live “all together” in their own
area must be considered as “natural”, because this is a need which was born
from what had been experienced in the past.
Referring to the
Confidence Building Measures (CBM), Akinci argued that the Turkish Cypriot side
has shown its good will from the very first day of his “election” and gave as
example the agreement on the opening of the crossing points in the areas of
Deryneia and Apliki as well as the fact that the Turkish occupation army has
given permission for excavations with the aim of finding missing persons in 30
military zones in the occupied area of the island.
He went on and
alleged: “I can easily say that as
Turkish Cypriot side we are fully doing our bid on other issues as well.
However, it is not possible to say the same thing for the Greek Cypriot side on
the issue of the cell phones being used without a problem in both sides, for
example. […] After overcoming the technical difficulties for the cell
phones to work without a problem in both sides, we have been told that the head
of the regulatory institution in the south creates a problem, but this will be
overcome. Now, however, it is noted that
a law which is valid in the south is preventing this cooperation. If there is
really an obstacle in the law, what should be done is to lift this obstacle in
the law and not this important CBM […]”.
Referring to the
negotiations, Akinci said that they are working on the issue of the criteria in
the property chapter now and if there is political will and determination, a
solution could be reached within months, not years. He argued that it would be better for all if
a solution was found before the parliamentary elections to be held in the
government controlled area of Cyprus in May 2016.
Akinci argued
that it would be wrong to ignore the internal affairs of the breakaway regime
while efforts for finding a solution to the Cyprus problem are exerted and
alleged: “A TRNC the economy and the
democracy of which will function well, which will respect its citizens, which
is not postponing its problems and tries to find solutions is the best
guarantee of a possible solution”.
(I/Ts.)
3.Turkes claimed that the system of guarantees
safeguarded the peace and security in Cyprus for the last 41 years
Turkish Cypriot
daily HalkinSesi newspaper (16.11.15) reports that TugrulTurkes, the deputy Prime Minister of Turkey alleged that there is
a striking contradiction between the feeling of peace and security that exists
in the island for the last 41 years due to the system of guarantees and the
current conflicts in the region of Eastern Mediterranean.
Turkes represented Turkey at the “Republic Day”
celebration for the Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) and made these statements prior to the military
parade.
Turkes claimed
that both Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots have acted always with good
intentions for finding a just and permanent solution to the Cyprus problem and
added that Turkey’s priority is a comprehensive solution which will safeguard
“the political equality and the legal rights of the Turkish Cypriot side”. He
also added that the Turkish side continues to have the political will so that
the Cyprus negotiations to be completed the soonest possible under the UN
auspices. He also said that Turkey will continue to exert its support towards
this direction.
He also stated
that a solution in Cyprus will contribute in a positive way to peace in Eastern
Mediterranean and added that a solution will show the true potentials of the
island. According to Turkes after the solution the economy in Cyprus will be
further developed and many projects that in the past were not possible to take
place will be able to happen.
He went on and said that while the Turkish side is
waiting for a solution to be reached, it does not accept the approach that the
“TRNC” must postponed all its activities and just wait for the solution. Referring to the water project for transferring water
from Turkey to the “TRNC”, Turkes stated that the project demonstrated both the
connection and the union between “mother land” and the “TRNC”. He also said that the strengthening of the
“TRNC” economy is one of Turkey’s primary goals adding that a strong economy is
the best guarantee for the Turkish Cypriots, whenever a solution is reached or
not.
(CS)
4. Akinci to foreign journalists: It is not the end
of the world if a solution is not reached by May 2016, but we must make use of
the momentum
Turkish Cypriot
daily Kibris newspaper (15.11.15) reported that Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci has said that their aim is
to find a solution up until the parliamentary elections to be held in the
Republic of Cyprus in May 2016, but if this does not happen it would not be the
end of the world. Briefing foreign journalists on Saturday who visited the
occupied area of Cyprus for the 32th anniversary of the Unilateral Declaration
of Independence (UDI), Akinci noted that
they will continue their efforts after the elections as well, but there is a
momentum now and it would be useful not to lose this momentum.
Akinci said that their aim with President Anastasiades
is not to corner and accuse each other. He added that sometimes this happened and the sides
were continuously accusing each other. He said: “However, we do not want to do
this. We understood that we are on the
same boat and we want to lead the boat to a solution in safety”. Akinci
noted that they are trying to convey to
the people the message that they should not see the other side and the people
there as their enemy, but as their future partners.
Akinci argued
that there was no bloodshed in Cyprus for 40 years, but there is a problem
which needs to be solved. He noted that
the solution in Cyprus will benefit Turkey’s EU accession process, a situation
in which all sides will gain could be created and the island could be used as
center to transfer the Cypriot, Egyptian and Israeli natural gas to Europe
through Turkey. In the same manner, he added, water and electricity could
be transferred from Turkey to the government controlled area of Cyprus and over
Cyprus to the Middle East.
Akinci said that
they want a solution the soonest with
President Anastasiades and they intensified their meetings, but he is not saying that everything is
perfect, that it is advancing easily and there is no problem. He noted that
there are obstacles which should be overcome, but important progress has been
achieved on some chapters. He pointed out that now they are working on the
criteria in the property issue and argued that agreeing on the property will be
hopeful for the other issues as well.
Akinci also
referred to the Confidence Building Measures (CBM) noting that their effort is
to make the daily life of the people easier.
(I/Ts.)
5.
A Turkish General YasarGuler paid an illegal visit to the occupied area of
the Republic of Cyprus
According to illegal Bayrak television
(online, 16.11.15), the Turkish Deputy Chief of Military General Staff General
YadarGuler, who is representing the Turkish Armed Forces at the 32nd
anniversary of the “unilateral declaration of the independence” (UDI) of the
breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus, met with the
Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci, the self-styled speaker of the
parliament SibelSiber and the self-styled prime minister Omer Kalyoncu on
Friday.
Speaking during his visit to Akinci, General Guler said that “Turkey will
continue to protect the independence and equality of the TRNC and the Turkish
Cypriot people”.
Expressing
the hope that the efforts towards reaching a comprehensive solution which will
safeguard the prosperity and happiness of the Turkish Cypriots will reach a
conclusion, he said that they attache great importance to the continuation of
active and effective guarantees of Turkey.
Guler
also added that “the military authorities with new expansions will continue to
cooperate with TRNC officials for a just and comprehensive solution”.
For his part, Akinci noted that “the TRNC on the 32nd anniversary of its UDI is
capable of standing on its own feet with its strong economy and democracy”
and said that “the TRNC as a secular and
democratic state is taking firm steps forward”. He also added that they
will continue with their works in cooperation with Turkey’s government,
parliament and other institutions. “Our aim is to establish a just,
comprehensive and sustainable peace in Cyprus which will not be destroyed as it
happened in the past. We have been
working towards achieving this aim through close consultations with Turkey”,
Akinci said.
Also touching upon the expansions made
by the Turkish military authorities, he said “your close cooperation and
understanding are providing serious support to our efforts”.
Also meeting with General Guler, Siber
alleged that Turkey with its armed forces, state and government has always
supported a solution in Cyprus. She also expressed the need for the Turkish
Cypriots to take their rightful place in the world and at the international
platform and said that they have been working towards achieving this goal.
Also touching upon the confidence
building measures, Siber said that it is important to respect the institutions
of the “TRNC”. Referring to Ataturk’s principle of “peace at home peace in the world”,
she expressed the desire for reaching a solution where people will live in
security.
6. Davutoglu: “Turkey’s first priority is to make
northern Cyprus develop stability”
According to
Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (online, 16.11.15), the breakaway regime in
the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus celebrated on Sunday its 32nd
unilateral declaration of independence.
Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu
sent a message to the Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci for the 32nd
anniversary of the UDI, saying that it is Turkey’s first priority to make
“northern Cyprus” develop stability.
7.Kalyoncu’s contacts with foreign delegations
visiting the occupation regime for the UDI
Turkish Cypriot
daily HaberalKibrisli (15.11.15) reported that so-called prime minister Omer Kalyoncu met with a delegation of the UK
Parliament “TRNC friendship group” who were illegally visiting the occupation
regime within the framework of the “celebrations” for the UDI.
The delegation was composed by Lord Sharkey, Lord
Maginnis, BaronesMeralHuseyinEce and Deputy YasminQureshi.
Speaking during
the meeting, Kalyoncu expressed pleasure
over the delegation’s visit to the “TRNC” and pointed to the importance of the
“friendship group” activities for the Turkish Cypriots. Supporting that the
Greek Cypriot side do all necessary in order to prevent their voice to be heard
abroad, Kalyoncu said that it is in this framework that the “friendship groups’
activities” are important for them.
On the Cyprus problem, Kalyoncu said that the Turkish
Cypriot side supports the efforts aiming to find a solution to the Cyprus
problem and added that the solution will bring security and stability in the
region.
He stressed further how important is the contribution
of the UK as a guarantor country to the efforts for reaching to a solution.
In his turn, Lord Sharkey, member of the Liberal
Democrats Party and also co- chairman of the “TRNC friendship group”, said that
its being many years that they are supporters of the “TRNC” and the Turkish
Cypriots and added that they are optimistic like never before for the solution
of the Cyprus problem.
Also speaking, Qureshi, Deputy with the Labour Party said
that there are a lot of British Deputies at the House of Commons who support
the solution of the Cyprus problem and added that as soon as they return to the
UK, they will discuss the issue at the Assembly.
Lord Maginnis on his turn referred to the necessity
for reaching to a solution on the halloumi/hellim issue.
Meanwhile,
according to the paper, Kalyoncu met
further with “Macedonia state minister” FurkanCako and his accompanied
delegation.
Speaking during
the meeting, Cako said that the Turks of
the “Macedonia” watch closely the developments in the “TRNC”, support the
Turkish Cypriots “rights” and will continue to do so.
Moreover, according to illegal Bayrak television
(16.11.15) so-called prime minister Omer Kalyoncu, gave a lunch in honour of
the guests who attended the “celebrations”.
Speaking during
the event held at the Dome Hotel in occupied Keryneia, Kalyoncu said that they will be working with determination towards
further strengthening the institutions of the “TRNC” before a solution.
“The Turkish
Cypriot people who suffered as a result of conflicts and isolations for many
years know the meaning and value of living in peace, in a peaceful world and
integrated with the world” Kalyoncu noted.
Alleging that the establishment of the “TRNC” 32 years
ago is not preventing the solution of the Cyprus problem, he said: “We are
working to reach our ultimate goal and unite the island under a bi-zonal,
bi-communal federal structure which will be bound to EU values.
“A just, secure and comprehensive solution will bring
the Turkish Cypriot people together with the world and integrate them with the
international system”, said Kalyoncu and added that a solution to be reached on
the island will also bring peace and stability to the region.
Supporting that the natural wealth of the island
belongs to everyone, Kalyoncu said that a win-win formula for factors like
natural gas, water, trade and tourism would only be possible through a
successful outcome at the negotiations.
Stating that time should not be wasted at the
negotiations, he said that the Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) should be
realized and people should feel the positive effects in their daily lives while
the negotiations are continuing.He therefore asked both sides to show flexibility on the issue of CBMs.
(AK)
8.
Colak and Akinci met with foreign delegations in the occupied area of the
Republic of Cyprus
According to illegal Bayrak television
(online, 13.11.15), the Azerbaijan Cyprus Friendship Society met with the
self-styled foreign minister EmineColak within the framework of the
“celebrations” of the 32nd “unilateral declaration of independence”
of the breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus.
During
the visit the head of the Society OrhanHasanoglu said that there are close to a
thousand Azeri students studying in the “TRNC” and
that they are working on 30 academic programs. Explaining that exhibitions that promoted the “TRNC” have been
organised in Azerbaijan, Hasanoglu said that they are in constant contact with
Ankara and are always exchanging information regarding the “TRNC”. He
concluded by saying that they will continue to work hard to develop relations
between Azerbaijan and the “TRNC”.
Colak, for her part, noted the special
relations between Azerbaijan and the “TRNC” and added that every student that
studies in the “TRNC” is a bridge to the outside world, an ambassador so to
speak. Noting that investments made in the field of education are an investment
in the future, Colak said that she is very pleased with the efforts made by the
society and touched upon the importance of further developing relations between
the “TRNC” and Azerbaijan.
Meanwhile, Colak met also with a
delegation from the UK Parliament’s “TRNC Friendship Group”, who was in the
occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus
on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the UDI of the
breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus.
During the meeting, which was held at
the so-called ministry of foreign affairs, Colak briefed the delegation about
the latest stage reached in the negotiation process and the Cyprus problem.
Baroness
MeralHuseyinEce (member of the Liberal Democrat Party), Lord Maginnis (member
of the Independent Ulster Unionist Party), YasminQureshi (member of the Labour
Party), Lord Sharkey (member of the Liberal Democrat Party) are in the
delegation of UK Parliament’s “TRNC Friendship Group”.
On the same issue, illegal Bayrak
television (online, 13.011.15) reported that Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa
Akinci met also with the UK Parliamentary Friendship Group Co-Chairman and
member of the Liberal Democrat Party Lord Sharkey.
Speaking during the meeting, Akinci
expressed the hope that the positive atmosphere will be reflected on the Cyprus
issue and informed the group regarding the Cyprus negotiations process.
Referring to the 32nd UDI of
the “TRNC”, Akinci said that there is a need for a strengthened economy and
democracy in order to be part of a future federal structure and an EU member.
“A body can only survive if it exists not if it collapses. This is important
for our future. We must know that everything depends on a solution and our
future is based on this now”, Akinci said.
Explaining that they are working with
the “parliament” and the “government” in order to find a solution, Akinci said: “We want to solve the problem
as this is our only way out”. He said that if they are unsuccessful at finding
a solution once again the future generations will have different expectations
from the federation that is currently being discussed at the negotiating table.
“This is the last opportunity for a solution to the Cyprus problem as the
negotiations process has been continuing for half a century, enough is
enough’”, Akinci argued.
Moreover, Akinci also met with the
Austrian Federation of Workers’ Trade Unions. Speaking during the meeting,
Akinci claimed that the Turkish Cypriot side truly desires a solution to the
Cyprus problem because it is the only way out. “The international community,
Turkey, Greece…all support a federal settlement. Should we fail once again to
reach a solution I believe that future generations will have other expectations
than a federal settlement. This is our last chance. We have had enough”, he
added.
Akinci also briefed the visitors about
the work carried out by the Committee of Missing Persons in Cyprus and the
ongoing work to clear mines in military zones.
9.
Sibel and Akinci met with foreign parliamentarians
According to illegal Bayrak television
(online, 14.11.15), the self-styled speaker of the assembly SibelSiber has
expressed the hope that the ongoing negotiations process will be concluded with
a mutually acceptable solution for both sides.
Sibel’s words came during a visit paid
to her on Friday by a delegation of foreign parliamentarians who are in the
occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus to attend the “celebrations” of the 32nd
anniversary of the unilateral declaration of independence of the breakaway
regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus.
Herman
Razafindarvelo, who is representing the Parliament of Madagascar, said that
they support the “TRNC” in every field. He added that the non-recognition of
the “TRNC” is no obstacle to cooperate on technical matters.
Pakistani
MP Khan Tarıqullah, for his part, invited Sibel and other “TRNC parliamentarians”
to his country.
Deputy
Billow Adam Kerow from the Kenyan Parliament conveyed his country’s support to
the ongoing negotiations process.
Siber,
for her part, stated that the non-recognition of the “TRNC” did not mean that
the “TRNC” cannot establish relations with other countries. She proposed for
the establishment of an inter-parliamentary friendship group.
A delegation of the UK Parliament “TRNC
Friendship Group” also met with Siber.
Speaking during the visit, Lord Sharkey
said that their visit to the island came at an important time. He said that
they continue to support the just cause of the Turkish Cypriot people and that
they will continue to do so in the future.
Siber for her part expressed the hope
that the ongoing negotiations process will be concluded with a mutually
acceptable solution for both sides.
On the same issue, Akinci also met with
the foreign parliamentarians. Expressing happiness over hosting the
parliamentarians from 5 different countries at the “presidential palace”,
Akinci said that the beautiful atmosphere of the 15th of November will be
shared with the guests.
Briefing the guests on the ongoing
negotiations process, he said :“We are missing political spring weather and a
geographical solution in Cyprus.”
Explaining that the efforts towards
reaching a solution are based on the reality of the two communities and two
sides existing on the island, Akinci stressed that the conjuncture is suitable
for a solution.
Stressing that the referendum process,
the natural gas found off the coast of Cyprus and the 11th of February Joint
Declaration are all related with bi-zonality and bi-communality, Akinci pointed
out that this reality is the basis of the negotiations process.
Announcing that they aimed to finalize
the negotiations before May 2016, he said that he is not pessimistic towards a
solution however abstained to draw a rosy picture due to some problems that
have occurred.
Meanwhile, illegal Bayrak (online,
16.11.15) reports that guests, who were in the occupied area of the Republic of
Cyprus to attend the 15th of November UDI of the breakaway regime
“celebrations” met with self-styled state and government officials on the
side-lines of their visit.
The Turkish President’s secretary
general FahriKasırga, Deputy Chairman of the Turkish Grand National Assembly
Professor Dr Mehmet NaciBostanci, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister TugrulTurkes,
Turkey’s Chief of Staff’s second Commander General YasarGuler and
administrative authorities representatives from the Turkish Grand National
Assembly SalimUslu, TufanKose and SeyfettinYilmaz met with Akinci, Siber and Kalyoncu.
The Cyprus issue topped the agenda
during the meetings and the visiting delegation reiterated their support to the
Turkish Cypriot side during the Cyprus negotiations process. The delegation
also expressed the hope that the Cyprus negotiations process will reach a happy
ending.
Akinci, for his part, said that they are
trying their best to reach a successful outcome at the talks and added that
they are in search of a just and permanent solution.
Touching
upon the G 20 summit that is taking place in Turkey, Akinci said that the
outcome to emerge from the summit will affect the region and the world and
expressed the hope that the outcome will benefit all.
Siber, for her part, said that they are
working towards strengthening the corporate structure of the “TRNC” and
improving the living standard of the people. She also expressed the hope that a
solution will be found to the Cyprus problem soon.
And lastly Kalyoncu noted that a
solution to the Cyprus problem will contribute to the island and the region.
“For the first time natural resources will be the reason for a solution. The
sides will use common sense and work towards Cyprus becoming an island of
peace”, he added. Kalyoncu also thanked Turkey for its contributions to the
“TRNC”.
Furthermore, Turkish Cypriot daily
Kibris (14.11.15) reported that Siber met also with so-called deputies from
Kosovo: MuferaSinik and FikrimDamka. From Madagascar Parliament were also Jean
Claude Rabearisoa and BasileElitafa.
According to the paper, Siber also met
with Enes Ibrahim from FYROM.
Moreover, the paper reports that Guler,
in his meeting with Siber, said that there are important developments in three
issues. Referring to the opening of the crossing point in Deryneia said that an
important expansion was made. He noted: “We supported the efforts for solving
this issue. We are looking positively to the excavations for the missing
persons”. Gule said that they support also the restoration of the Maronite
churches.
10.Turkish warships and airplanes violated Cyprus’
territorial waters and airspace for the UDI
Turkish Cypriot daily Haberal Kibris newspaper (16.11.15) reports that the Turkish acrobatic airplanes known as “Turkish Stars”
and the F-16 Soloturk squad carried out several demonstrations on November 15,
within the framework of the “celebrations” for the UDI.
According to the
paper, the demonstration by the Turkish
acrobatic airplanes took place in occupied Keryneia and over the Dr. FazilKucuk
Boulevard in the occupied part of Lefkosia, during the main ceremony.
Later in the
afternoon, the aerobatics team and
Soloturk made a show above the occupied Keryneia harbor and promenade.
During the same
day, two vessels of the Turkish Naval
Forces, TCG Gelibolu frigate and TCG Burakreis submarine anchored at the
tourist harbor of occupied Keryneia and remained opened for the public to
visit.
(AK)
11.Celebration ceremony in Budapest for the 32nd
anniversary of the establishment of the UDI
Turkish Cypriot
daily Kibris newspaper (16.11.15) reported that the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of the “Unilateral
Declaration of Independence” (UDI) has been celebrated in Budapest, Hungary
with a special ceremony given by the “representative” of the “TRNC” in Hungary,
Arif Altay.
As the paper
writes, around 200 participants attended
the ceremony. Amongst them were Ambassadors from third countries, foreign
media representatives, Turkish and Hungarian businessmen, scientists and the
Ambassador of Turkey in Budapest SakirFakili.
Delivering a
speech at the reception, Altay briefed the participants concerning the general
economic and political situation in the “TRNC”.
(AK)
12.A German Deputy proposed the establishment of a
“friendship group” between Germany and the occupation regime
Under the title;
“We could establish a friendship group”,
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (16.11.15) reports on statements by the Deputy with the Social Democrat Party (SDP) at the
German Parliament, Dr. Karl Heinz Brunner who met the other day with a
delegation of the so-called Cyprus Turkish Businessmen's Council (“KTIAK”)
headed by its "chairman" IlkerZugurt.
As the paper
writes, during the meeting, Brunner
proposed the establishment of a “friendship group” with the “TRNC’s
parliament”. He pointed out that Germany has established “friendship groups”
with several countries which do not have a certain status and added that the
“TRNC” could be included to these countries.
Indicating Taiwan as an example of these countries,
Brunner proposed the establishment of a “friendship bridge” between Germany and
the “TRNC” and said that the “committee” to be established would aim to make
the voice of the Turkish Cypriots be heard abroad.
Brunner said
also he is informed about the latest developments in Cyprus and that he had
visited the island and occupied Keryneia several times in the past. He added
that he had also worked for some period as an education staff at the “American
University of Keryneia” (“GAU”).
Speaking on
behalf of “KTIAK”, Zugurt said that he
will convey to the so-called assembly Brunners’ proposal and added that they
were pleased from this proposal.
Zugurt stated also that they invited Brunner and other
German Deputies to visit the “TRNC”, adding that such visits would strengthen
further the ties between the two “countries”.
(AK)
13. Akansoy: Deryneia crossing point to open in
seven months, Apliki crossing point to open in sixteen months
Turkish Cypriot
daily Afrika newspaper (14.11.15) reports that the self-styled
minister of interior and labourAsimAkansoy held
inspections at the Deryneia crossing point and stated that the Deryneia
crossing point will open in 7 months and the Apliki crossing point will open in
a year and a half.
The paper strongly criticized Akansoy’s statements,
noting that there is no money for the opening of the crossing points. “They are
waiting for the EU; because the EU funds are not released yet the opening of
the crossing points is delayed. Since they have promised for a solution and a
referendum to be held on May, when are they planning to open the crossing
points? After the solution?”, writes Afrika.
Akansoy, stating
that the EU has allocated a 2 million euro fund for the two crossing points, he
said that the fund would only be released a month and a half later. “Once this
is done, work should commence and the crossing points will be opened in a
speedy manner” he said, adding that it is aimed that the Deryneia crossing
point will open in seven months.
According to
Akansoy, the amount of 1,800,000 Euro is needed for the opening of Deryneia and
the amount of 800,000 is needed for the opening of Apliki crossing point. He
stated that time is needed for the current infrastructure work to
be completed and claimed that the “TRNC’s” responsibilities regarding the
Deryneia crossing point included the construction of a 3km road and installing
telephone, power lines as well as water pipes, while the Greek Cypriot side only needs to renew a150
meter stretch of road.
(CS)
14."KITSAB" attended the 49th
UFTAA general congress in Brussels
According to
Turkish Cypriot daily Havadis newspaper (16.11.15), the "Turkish Cypriot Association of Tourism and Travel Agents"
("KITSAB") has been represented at the 49th UFTAA (United
Federation of Travel Agents' Association) Congress and General Assembly meeting
which took place in Brussels between November 8-9.
The occupation regime was represented by the honorary
"chairman" of "KITSAB" and member of the management board,
OzbekDedekorkut.
In a written
statement on behalf of “KITSAB”, Dedekorkut, said that during the two days
meeting of UFFTA, issues related with the global problems in the tourism
sector, the effects of the terror attacks on tourism, the relations of travel
agencies with IATA (International Air Transport Association), the further
development of UFTAA and other issues were discussed.
Also, during the
congress, the new administration board
of UFTAA has been elected. Dedekorkut was elected to the board and took the
position of the chairman of the Organization of Technologies.
(AK)
15. Religious tourism in the breakaway regime
Turkish Cypriot
daily Havadis newspaper (15.11.15) reported that the Turkish Cypriot CTL tourism agency, which is activated in bringing
religious tourism in the breakaway regime, brought its first group consisted of
211 persons in the breakaway regime, on November 14.
According to the
paper, the group will visit various religious places in the “TRNC”.OrhanTolun
the chairman of the “Turkish Cypriot Tourism Agencies” stated that religious
tourism will help reviving tourism in the “TRNC”.
On his part, the
chairman of the CTL tourism agency, HasimRahmancioglu, stated that they aim to bring a group of religious
tourists every week in the breakaway regime.
He said that the next group will visit the breakaway regime on December
18.
(CS)
16. New illegal universities in the breakaway
regime
Turkish Cypriot
daily Havadis newspaper (18.11.15) reports that the foundation stone for a new illegal university, the “Cyprus health
and community science university” was laid in occupied Morfou village. The new illegal university will start
operating as of 2016.
The paper also
reports that the inauguration ceremony for the Roseville Kamacioglu Student
Dorm, took place at the same time in the area. The new dorm will be able to
host 660 students.
In addition,
Havadis (16.11.15) reported that the
foundation stone of the medicine school of the illegal Keryneiauniversity
was laid in occupied Keryneia.
(CS)
17.
Ban discussed with Erdogan the Cyprus issue
According to Ankara Anatolia news agency
(16.11.15), the Head of the UN on Saturday, who is in Antalya to attend the G20
leaders’ meeting, held face-to-face talks with Turkey's President RecepTayyip
Erdogan. Both leaders are in the city to attend the G20 leaders’ summit that
started on Sunday.
In a readout of the meeting, the UN
spokesperson's office said that Ban and Erdogan exchanged views on the way
forward to resolve the Syrian conflict. "[Ban] warmly thanked Turkey for
hosting such a large number of refugees from that country," the statement
said.
During the meeting, Ban and Erdogan
condemned Friday's attacks in Paris that killed approximately 130 people and
left more than 350 injured. They "stressed the need for the international
community to address terrorism in a determined and unified way", the UN
said.
Ban also "expressed appreciation
for the Turkish presidency of the G20", adding that the summit was
happening "in sombre times that required unity of action". He said he
would present a comprehensive plan of action against violent extremism in a few
months.
Ban
and Erdogan also discussed Palestine, Libya and Cyprus, as well as issues
related to climate change, the UN said.
18.
Turkey says it foiled an Istanbul terror plot on same day as Paris attacks
According to Turkish daily Hurriyet
Daily News (online, 16.11.15), Turkish authorities foiled a plot to stage a
"major" attack in Istanbul on the same day as the deadly gun and
suicide attacks in Paris, a senior official said on Nov. 15.
Police on Nov. 13 detained five people
in Istanbul, the source told AFP, including a suspected close associate of the
notorious Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group militant known as
"Jihadi John" who Washington believes was likely killed in a recent
drone strike in Syria. "We believe
they were planning an attack in Istanbul on the same day as the Paris
attacks" on Nov. 13, the official said on condition of anonymity. "The
initial investigation shows we foiled a major attack."
Turkish authorities are investigating if the
foiled plot had any links with the Paris attacks which killed at least 129
people, the Turkish official said. "All possibilities are being
evaluated," the official said, adding it was possible that those detained
had also been planning an attack in Europe.
The arrest of the five suspected ISIL
jihadists came ahead of a summit of G-20 leaders gathering in Turkey's southern
resort of Antalya on Nov. 15 and Nov. 16.
"Syria has become a training ground
for terrorists," the Turkish official said. "There is a need for
joint initiatives to fight terrorism and solve the Syrian crisis".
Turkey is in intensive dialogue with
France, the official said adding: "Our priority is how we can find the
murderers. It's not a good time for a blame game."
19.
The Prime Minister has the responsibility of representing the country in the
G20 meeting, which was overshadowed by restrictions on media and free
enterprise
According to Turkish daily Today’s Zaman
(online, 14.11.15), hostile restrictions on independent media and the
government's intimidation of entrepreneurs known to hold critical views of its
policies are corroding Turkey's image as it prepares to host the G-20 summit.
In the “G20 Presidency Priorities for
2015” document prepared by Turkey as the host of the G-20 meeting to be held on
Nov. 15-16, emphasis was placed on investment as a driver of global growth.
In late October Kozaİpek Holding, whose
subsidiaries include the formerly dissident İpek Media Group, was taken over by
government-appointed trustees based on the Ankara 5th Penal Court of Peace.
Interestingly, the expert opinion, on which the court's decision was based,
acknowledged the absence of any faults in the holding's accounting books.
Then there was last week's police raid
on a number of unions affiliated with the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen
and Industrialists (TUSKON), a union comprising 55,000 businessmen members
nationwide. Police conducted a search of the offices of three TUSKON member
associations in Ankara, which were accused of financing terrorism.
Restrictions
imposed on many media outlets, including Today's Zaman, by the Turkish
government, attempting to stop them from covering the summit is another setback
for Turkey's image ahead of the meeting.
The paper also reported that President
RecepTayyip Erdogan will host the G-20 summit to be held with the attendance of
world leaders to discuss global issues.
However,
Turkey was represented at the prime ministerial level in previous G-20 summits.
Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, as the head of government, had represented
Turkey at the G-20 summit in Brisbane last year.
This development did not come as a
surprise to many because there have been widespread claims that Erdogan, who
upon assuming the presidency was constitutionally required to cut his ties with
his former political party and act impartially, has remained very influential
in the party and its internal affairs.
Speaking to Sunday's Zaman, CengizAktar,
a foreign policy expert, said it is normally the heads of government who
represent member countries at G-20 summits. Article 112 of the Constitution states that the Prime Minister has the
responsibility of representing the country.
Speaking on TRT Turk on Tuesday,
Davutoğlu said that although the G-20 summit is not a platform for political
issues, leaders will discuss political matters that concern the international
community as well.
Upon Turkey's proposal, the agenda of
the G-20 summit included a session titled “Terrorism and Refugee Issues.”
In remarks to Sunday's Zaman,
OzdemSanberk, a former diplomat and foreign policy analyst, said it is not
uncommon for the states hosting the G-20 summit to propose that attending
countries also discuss political issues that concern the international
community.
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TURKISH AFFAIRS SECTION
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AM)
