Panel discusses 'alternatives' to federal solution

The need to consider an “alternative models” for a Cyprus solution because of Greek Cypriot refusal to accept Turkish Cypriots was underlined during a high-profile debate at Near East University in Lefkoşa.

The session on The Status of Turkish Cypriots in the Historical Process was organised by the TRNC Ahıska Turks Culture and Solidarity Association on Saturday last week.

The Chairman of the session, Hakan Uygun, said “the Ahıska Turks [formerly resident in Georgia] were made to live in exile in 1944 by Joseph Stalin”.

We have been scattered around 10 different countries and have no homeland. We want people to understand the importance of having their own country, homeland and state, he said.

The event, supported by more than 10 civil groups and municipalities, was attended by hundreds of people and broadcast live on television, with speeches by former president Derviş Eroğlu, former foreign minister Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu, former negotiator Osman Ertuğ, Near East University lecturer Professor Hüseyin Işıksal and TMT Freedom Fighters' Association chairman Yılmaz Bora.

CyprusOnline