Two sovereign, equal and independent states are the only solution in Cyprus, Turkish Defense Ministry spokeswoman Pinar Kara claimed, while asserting that "Greece continues to violate the demilitarized status of the islands and illegal visits to islands."
During her briefing to reporters, she said that in accordance with the guarantees and alliance agreements, we stand by our Cypriot brothers and sisters today, as in the past. As a guarantor country, Turkey will continue to be the guarantor of peace, tranquility and security in Cyprus within the framework of international agreements and legitimate rights under international law."
Pinar Kara further asserted that "the Turkish Armed Forces continue to protect the rights and interests of Turkey and 'tdvk' in the Aegean and the Mediterranean and to be the guarantor of peace and security in Cyprus in accordance with the guaranty agreements."
He claimed that "Greece continues to violate the demilitarized status of the islands."
"Greece made 423 violations in 2022 and continued to violate international law by carrying out 19 visits to these islands, 11 of which were made by the Deputy Defence Minister, during this period. Greece's military activities on the demilitarized islands means 'substantial violation' of the provisions of the Lausanne Peace Treaty and the Paris Peace Treaty on civilian status," Pinar Kara argued.
"We will continue to say about the illegality in this regard to our interlocutors on every platform," the Turkish MoD spokeswoman said, adding that "necessary initiatives against such violations and visits are being taken through diplomatic channels and activities are being carried out within the framework of reciprocity."
Pinar Kara said that "in the context of the meeting between our President and Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis in Istanbul and the framework they have set in our relations, in the meeting between our Minister and the Greek Defense Minister at the extraordinary meeting of NATO defense ministers, the importance of international law, keeping the channels of dialogue open and focusing on the positive agenda were discussed. The two ministers agreed to hold the fourth meeting on confidence-building measures in Ankara as soon as possible."
"Our hope is that the Turkish and Greek people will benefit from the riches of the region and live in peace, prosperity and security and that the Aegean will be a sea of friendship between Turkey and Greece, he said."
Source: CNA
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