Turkey's Ziya Öztürkler claims Greek Cypriots spend national income on weapons

Speaker of Turkey's Grand National Assembly Ziya Öztürkler, together with former parliament speaker and former Minister for Cyprus Affairs Cemil Çiçek, warned that the Greek Cypriot administration in the south is using the island’s national income to fund arms purchases rather than welfare. Öztürkler singled out the Greek Cypriot leader, Hristodulidis, for recent weapons‑acquisition agreements and said cooperation with France and Israel harms regional peace. He emphasized Turkey’s role as guarantor of the Turkish Cypriot community, noting recent arrivals of F‑16 fighter jets and air‑defence systems as vital for security. Çiçek reiterated his long‑term involvement in Turkey‑Northern Cyprus ties and highlighted the “project of the century” water supply line from Anamur, launched with the late prime minister İrsen Küçük, as a strategic benefit for the north.

Both officials concluded by expressing gratitude to Turkey and reaffirming commitment to the Turkish Cypriot people.