TRNC News 22.8.2017 Turkish EU Minister Çelik: "Talks cannot remain in uncertainty forever"

Turkey’s Minister for European Union Affairs and Chief Negotiator Ömer Çelik appeared on NTV’s live broadcast and discussed the Cyprus issue, according to reports by Anadolu News Agency.

Çelik said that talks cannot remain in uncertainty forever, particularly as all issues have been discussed. He added that the TRNC and Turkey will consult with each other to decide on next steps.

Regarding the statements that the comprehensive talks had ended, Çelik reiterated that the process had been sabotaged by the Greek Cypriot side.

Foreign Minister Ertuğruloğlu receives Turkish Cypriot runner Hekimoğlu

Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu received the Turkish Cypriot runner Yiğitcan Hekimoğlu, who was accompanied by his coach Celal Keles, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the meeting Ertuğruloğlu emphasized that Hekimoğlu, who participated in the 16th World Athletics Championship in London, was a source of great national pride for the Turkish Cypriot people.

Congratulating Hekimoğlu for his great success while participating in the 4×100 metres men’s relay in London, Ertuğruloğlu expressed his hope that this success can become an example and a motivation for the youth of the country. Pointing out that the Foreign Ministry is ready to do their utmost in this regard, Ertuğruloğlu emphasised that there are many talented young people in the country and that it is very important for the future of the country to encourage these young people.

Turkish Cypriot runner Yiğitcan Hekimoğlu, who participated in the World Athletics Championship representing Turkey, said that he was proud to represent the Turkish Cypriot people. He said that despite the embargoes imposed on the TRNC, he had the opportunity to develop himself continuously and that he was proud to represent his country in high-level competitions, but lamented that the Turkish Cypriot people can only participate as individual athletes and not in sports teams.

Hekimoğlu said, “I am honoured and proud to promote and represent my country and its young people by participating in international high-level competitions. I am proud of being an example for the Turkish Cypriot youth. I will continue to work hard to be successful on behalf of our country despite the embargoes”.