KKTC: A Journey from Peace Operation to Independence Declaration, Celebrating 41 Years
41 years ago, the declaration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC) held great significance not only within the Turkish world but also in international politics. The attempts by the Greek Cypriots, with the support of Greece, to eradicate the Turkish presence on the island, especially since 1963, reached intolerable levels. In response, Turkey took action and carried out the Peace Operation, preventing the annexation of Cyprus by Greece and securing the existence of the Turkish Cypriot people. Following the successful outcome of the operation, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was established on February 13, 1975.
Independence Declaration
The declaration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on November 15, 1983, marked a significant turning point in the political life of the Turkish Cypriot people. The Federal Assembly, in a statement announcing the establishment of the KKTC, expressed the desire for all issues between the two communities to be resolved through peaceful and inclusive negotiations, emphasizing the importance of equal dialogue. The declaration affirmed the establishment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and its independence, representing the culmination of the struggles and aspirations of the Turkish Cypriot people.
Peace Operation
Turkey initiated the Cyprus Peace Operation on July 20, 1974, with the aim of ensuring the security of the Turkish Cypriots. The intervention prevented the annexation of Cyprus by Greece and safeguarded the existence of the Turkish Cypriot community. Following the successful conclusion of the operation, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was established on February 13, 1975. Subsequently, a population exchange agreement was reached under UN supervision in Vienna a year later, leading to the division of the island into two distinct regions, with Greek Cypriots in the south and Turkish Cypriots in the north.
The journey of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus from the Peace Operation to the declaration of independence has been marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to peace. The establishment of the KKTC not only symbolizes the protection of the Turkish Cypriot identity and rights but also represents a beacon of hope for a future marked by cooperation, understanding, and reconciliation between the communities on the island. As the KKTC celebrates its 41st anniversary, it stands as a testament to the strength and unity of the Turkish Cypriot people in the face of adversity.
