Turkish Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç on 'Champion Angels': Responsible Parties Will Face Justice

In his statement, Tunç said, "We lost our Champion Angels who were in Turkey during the earthquake in Adıyaman, and we experienced a great tragedy. Of the 65 people who perished, 35 were our Champion Angels from Northern Cyprus. There is an ongoing legal process, which we are closely following. Rest assured, the responsible parties will receive the punishment they deserve. The families of our Champion Angels should have no doubt about this. We are committed to closely following this case."

Tunç made these remarks during a speech at a "Meeting Program with Cyprus Martyr Families and Veterans," held in Bartın, which was also attended by President Ersin Tatar. He noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Peace Operation, which brought peace and freedom to the Turkish Cypriot people.

He highlighted that the Peace Operation, initiated by Turkey, put an end to the unjust attacks and oppression faced by the Turkish Cypriot community, showing that Turkey has always stood by them. Tunç stressed the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by martyrs and veterans in ensuring the freedom and dignity of the people in the region.

Tunç also underscored the significance of maintaining peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, noting that the security achieved in the region was hard-won. He emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot people have faced increasing pressure and oppression since the 1960s, sharing a common destiny with the region.

Tunç reiterated Turkey's commitment to working towards a just and lasting solution on the island, in cooperation with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). He criticized the persistent refusal of the Greek Cypriot side to engage in negotiations on an equal basis, stressing that a solution on the island can only be achieved through the recognition of the Turkish Cypriots' rights.

"Turkey Will Continue to Be the Greatest Supporter of the Turkish Cypriot Cause"

Tunç emphasized that the foundation of a solution in Cyprus lies in strengthening the TRNC politically, economically, and socially. He highlighted the importance of the TRNC being recognized as an independent and sovereign state on the international stage. He pointed to the recent acceptance of the TRNC as an observer member of the Organization of Turkic States and the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States as significant steps in this direction.

Tunç concluded by affirming that under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey will continue its efforts to ensure the recognition of the TRNC as an independent and sovereign state. He described the Cyprus cause as a deeply rooted and significant issue for the Turkish nation, one that was achieved through great sacrifice. He assured that Turkey will remain the strongest supporter of the Turkish Cypriots' just cause and will never leave them alone.

Tunç echoed President Erdoğan's call for a more just world, emphasizing that Turkey has always stood tall against injustice and will continue to be a beacon of hope for the oppressed and downtrodden around the world.