In the written statement made by the TRNC Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was reminded that the US Presidential Decree declared the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus as a country suitable for receiving defense services, and that Washington has completely lifted the arms sales restriction imposed on the Greek Cypriot side since 1987, as of 2021.
“AS LIKE HE WAS GOING TO PREPARE FOR WAR…”
In the statement, it was emphasized that it was “tragicomic” in diplomatic parlance, that the US, which made the decision to sell arms to the Greek Cypriots by a Presidential Decision, cited “contributing to world peace” as the reason, and said: “The countries that are encouraging the Greek side’s war-mongering are once again urged to act by calculating the consequences of their actions and to use common sense.” We invite you to do so. Negatively affecting the delicate balances on the island and the region will not serve anyone’s interests.” expressions were used.
In the statement, it was noted that the reasons for the security threat of the Greek Cypriot side were far from convincing, and said, “After this decision taken by the US Presidency, it is clear that the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus will continue its arms race as if it were preparing for a war.” warning was made.
CONDEMNATION FROM TURKEY
In the written statement made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “We condemn the decision published by the USA yesterday (January 15) in which the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus was designated as a suitable country for arms sales and military training. The opinions recorded in the statement made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on this subject We consider this decision, which will increase armament activities on the island, as a grave mistake. Considering that our region is going through an extremely sensitive period, all relevant parties should avoid provocative steps and act prudently. “We expect the new administration to reverse this wrong step taken by the current President. As the Motherland and Guarantor State Turkey, we will continue to support the steps taken by the TRNC to increase its defense and deterrence capabilities.”
US PRESIDENTIAL DECISION
The other day, US President Joe Biden issued a decision allowing the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus to receive “defense materials and services” from the USA in accordance with the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.
In the statement made by the White House on the subject, “Providing defense materials and services (to the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus) will strengthen the security of the United States and support world peace.” The statement was included. (AA)