We welcome the fact that the elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) were held on 20 February 2005, in a democratic and peaceful atmosphere. The result of the elections reflects the free will of the Turkish Cypriot people. We congratulate the Turkish Cypriot people and all the political parties in this regard.

Elections are democratic stages in a society’s life. The strength of Turkish Cypriots stems from their unity and solidarity that they maintain within the rules of pluralistic democracy. The recent elections, which the international community has also monitored closely, have once again attested to the democratic institutional structure and rule of law in the TRNC. Our expectation is that a new government be formed and assume its duties in due time, in accordance with the constitutional process.

Finding a lasting and just settlement to the Cyprus issue is the common desire and goal of Turkey and the TRNC. In this respect, as in the past, Turkey will remain in close consultation and cooperation with the State and Government officials, as well as the political parties of the TRNC. Turkey will continue to support the Turkish Cypriot people in every field.