The State Department regrets the decision of the Organization of Turkic States to admit the illegal breakaway entity, set up in the Turkish-occupied northern part of Cyprus, as an observer, while reiterating US support for Cyprus’ reunification on the basis of a bizonal bicommunal federation.
Asked by Greek correspondents, a State Department spokesperson said that “the United States rejects statements that call for the recognition of the so-called ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus'”.
“We regret the decision of the Organization of Turkic States to accept as an observer an entity without international recognition. This decision is inconsistent with the principle of territorial integrity or the UN Charter. The United States recognizes the government of the Republic of Cyprus as the only legitimate government of the island” the spokesperson added.
Moreover, the spokesperson reiterated that the United States continue to support UN efforts for a Cyprus-led settlement on the basis of a bizonal bicommunal federation with political equality.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory.
Source: Cyprus News Agency