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Serdar Denktas, a prominent Turkish Cypriot politician, has called on Turkey to formally recognize the Republic of Cyprus and open an embassy in the island’s internationally recognized government in the south.
The remarks come in response to recent moves by Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to establish embassies in the Republic of Cyprus, a development Denktas described as a disappointment. He said these countries had previously raised expectations that recognition of the breakaway Turkish Cypriot state might be possible.
According to the Press and Information Office, the online Turkish Cypriot outlet Giynik reported that Denktas questioned whether Turkish authorities had prior knowledge of the diplomatic steps taken by the Central Asian nations. If Ankara was unaware, he said, it would indicate “a serious weakness.” If Turkey did know and chose not to respond, he added, “we must consider what might be behind it,” implying there could be other strategic interests at play.
Speaking to Turkey’s Sozcu TV, Denktas said Turkey should recognize the Republic of Cyprus and establish diplomatic relations with the government in the south. He argued that such a move would not harm Turkey or the self-declared breakaway Turkish Cypriot state, recognized only by Turkey. Instead, he said, it would make Turkey the only country recognizing two separate entities on the island, potentially paving the way for alternative political solutions.
Denktas rejected the idea of the Turkish-occupied north merging with Turkey, saying residents do not wish to become “a patch for the Greek Cypriots” or “a province of anyone.” He reiterated that the so-called "trnc" is a distinct state and that its people must feel a sense of ownership over it.
