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Çelik: Cyprus Issue 'Cannot Be Resolved with Arms Race'

Published February 9, 2026, 17:29
Çelik: Cyprus Issue 'Cannot Be Resolved with Arms Race'

Turkish ruling AK Party spokesperson Ömer Çelik stated that the Cyprus issue cannot be resolved through an arms race or by turning the region into a military outpost for third countries. He argued that the Greek Cypriot side is focused on attracting countries with tensions with Turkey and increasing armaments, which he considers pointless and counterproductive. Çelik emphasized the need to resolve issues through diplomacy and reiterated Turkey's support for the Turkish Cypriot cause, as well as the protection of their rights and the sovereignty of the TRNC. Furthermore, Çelik referred to the upcoming visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Ankara, describing it as a good opportunity to strengthen diplomacy and resolve problems. At the same time, he criticized Athens for statements and moves that, according to the Turkish side, target Turkey, as well as the issue of armaments on the islands. He argued that Greece is trying to transfer bilateral issues to the European Union, which has not proven constructive. Çelik reiterated that Turkey seeks to avoid tension and that the Aegean Sea should be a sea of peace. He stressed that both the Cyprus issue and Turkish-Greek issues can only be resolved through diplomacy. Turkey, according to Çelik, is ready to activate or improve existing dialogue mechanisms with Greece. In summary, Turkey insists on the need for a diplomatic approach to the Cyprus issue and its relations with Greece, rejecting the arms race and military challenges. Protecting the interests of Turkish Cypriots and maintaining stability in the Eastern Mediterranean remain key priorities for Ankara.

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