Turkish professor urges Turkic States to counter EU stance on Northern Cyprus

The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) should develop a coordinated strategy to counter the European Union’s negative policies towards the group, particularly regarding Northern Cyprus, Turkish economist Cemal Zehir said on Wednesday.

Speaking to Report’s Turkish bureau ahead of the 17th session of the OTS Council of Elders in Nicosia, Zehir warned against potential diplomatic moves by Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan to establish embassies in the Republic of Cyprus — a move he said could align with EU narratives portraying Turkey as an occupying force on the island.

“This is an attempt to create division within the OTS. It is crucial that member states take a unified position,” Zehir said.

He expressed confidence that Turkish representatives would encourage other member states to more actively defend the rights of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), adding that Azerbaijan’s stance on the matter would have a significant impact on the broader dialogue.

Zehir also noted the possibility that the issue of TRNC recognition could arise during the meeting: “Turkey has already set an example, and the firm, principled stance of President Ilham Aliyev is also commendable.”