Tatar: NATO Is Not the EU, Turkey Will Not Allow Arbitrary Political Decisions

In a written statement, Tatar accused Christodoulides of attempting to regain lost public support by creating a new agenda, calling on the Greek Cypriot leader to "stop misleading his people, embrace the realities on the ground, and positively respond to cooperation proposals based on two states, two peoples, and the benefit of the region."

Tatar noted that Christodoulides’ efforts to exploit a meeting with outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden ahead of the January 20 handover to Donald Trump had failed, prompting him to now raise the issue of NATO membership.

"NATO Membership Requires Unanimity"

Tatar explained that NATO membership is governed by Article 10 of the Washington Treaty, signed on April 4, 1949, requiring unanimous approval from all member states. He stressed that unilateral action or decisions on behalf of another state are not possible within the alliance.

Drawing a comparison to the EU’s handling of Greek Cypriot membership, Tatar said, “Unlike the EU, NATO does not allow arbitrary political decisions. Turkey, as a key NATO member, ensures that the Greek Cypriot leadership’s unilateral initiatives cannot proceed.” He referenced a statement by Turkey’s Ministry of Defense, emphasizing that NATO enlargement decisions must be unanimous and that the Greek Cypriot administration’s attempts are unacceptable.

"Aimed at Undermining Turkey"

Tatar further highlighted that Christodoulides’ comments reflect an effort to strengthen the Greek Cypriot National Guard’s deterrent capabilities against Turkey, describing it as a move against NATO’s most critical member, Turkey.

Recalling the Turkish Armed Forces’ 1974 intervention in Cyprus, Tatar stated, “Since that day of peace, despite traditional Greek Cypriot mentality, the heroic Turkish soldiers have ensured the continuation of peace and stability on the entire island.”

Tatar concluded by urging Christodoulides to abandon rhetoric aimed at escalating tensions and focus on fostering collaboration for the benefit of both communities.