Ziya Öztürkler: Greek Cypriot Administration's Decision on Immovable Property Will Create Unrest

Öztürkler made his remarks on Kıbrıs TV's Kıbrıs'ta Sabah program, where he evaluated the approval of a bill that increases penalties to discourage the buying and selling of former Greek Cypriot properties in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

He emphasized that the Immovable Property Commission (IPC) is the sole legal authority regarding Greek Cypriot properties in the northern part of the island. Öztürkler pointed out that these measures would lead to unrest on both sides of the island.

Stressing that international law designates the IPC as the relevant authority, Öztürkler accused the Greek Cypriot administration of pursuing a strategy that would escalate tensions, noting that the Greek Cypriot side has taken this approach due to increased interest in the TRNC.

Öztürkler further highlighted that in order to create funds for compensation payments to Greek Cypriots applying to the IPC, the Ünal Üstel government has raised tax rates on properties purchased by foreigners, thus generating significant resources.

Recalling that the solution to the immovable property issue lies with the IPC, Öztürkler stated that the Greek Cypriot administration is experiencing weaknesses in governance and has become weak in decision-making.

Öztürkler also pointed out that the Greek Cypriot administration's strategic agreements with Greece, the United States, and Israel, as well as their steps in the continental shelf and energy sectors, have disrupted peace in the region.

He reiterated that they are acting based on the principle of protecting rights in cooperation with Turkey, a guarantor country, and emphasized the importance of the Turkish Armed Forces' role on the island. Öztürkler concluded by noting that the preservation of the presence of Turkish soldiers is a "red line."