LEFKOSA (AA) – July 20, 2012 – Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay has said that Cyprus Peace Operation had been a historical turning point not only for Cyprus but also for Turkish people.
Speaking at a ceremony which was held to celebrate Peace & Freedom Festival on the 38th anniversary of Cyprus Peace Operation in Lefkosa, Atalay said that he was honored to be in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on the 38th anniversary of July 20, 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation.
Turkey has always supported Turkish Cypriots, and will continue to do so, said Atalay, adding that Peace Operation was an expression of Turkey's determination to protect Turkish Cypriots.
Regarding Cyprus talks, Atalay said that although Greek Cypriots rejected Annan Plan in 2004, their EU membership was accepted, and now the EU was bearing the consequences of this decision.
Stressing that political will was necessary for a solution in Cyprus, Atalay said that Turkish Cypriots displayed this will very clearly, adding that Greek Cypriots should fulfill their responsibilities to respond efforts of Turkish Cypriots with goodwill.
Turkey supports preservation of Turkish Cypriot rights
Besir Atalay has said that Turkey would continue to support preservation of rights of Turkish Cypriots in regard to natural resources.
Atalay said the Greek Cypriot administration's initiative to own natural resources around the island by itself was another expression of its uncompromising attitude.
