My Distinguished Colleague, Guests, Members of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

At the outset I would like to welcome you all to the presentation of the Certificates of TRNC diplomats who have completed their professional training at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As you know, Cyprus is a national cause for us. My Government is following this subject with sensitivity. The Turkish Cypriot´s heroic struggle for freedom, and the suffering endured, the sacrifices made during this struggle are fresh in our memory and shape our vision of the future.

We would like the Cyprus problem to be solved through negotiations, within the UN framework. The place for a solution is the United Nations. A comprehensive solution will be based on the will and agreement of the two peoples. Turkey and the TRNC are determined to pursue policies focused on finding a solution. The Turkish side is ready for a new partnership based on political equality, bi-zonality and the equal status of two constituent states, within established UN parametres on Cyprus.

Turkey has exerted strenuous efforts until today towards finding a just and durable solution in Cyprus, for peace and stability to prevail in the Eastern Mediterrenean, and will continue in its efforts from now on. Similarly, the Turkish Cypriots have made every sacrifice in pursuit of a solution. But it is not possible to arrive at a solution by unilateral efforts. Unfortunately, the unresponsiveness of the Greek Cypriot side to the search for a compromise by the Turkish Cypriot side is impeding the United Nations process, and diminishing hopes for peace. I would like to emphasize in this regard that our patience is not boundless. Our objective is the strengthening of the TRNC with all its institutions and organs. The TRNC, set up by the Turkish Cypriots in exercise of their right to self determination, is the strongest guarantee of a viable solution. Among the institutions of the TRNC, the Minisry of Foreign Affairs is working intensively for the enhancement of the position of the country. We appreciate their work. The new cadres that are rising in their ranks will add strength to these efforts, and will enable the voice of the Turkish Cypriots to be heard much better and stronger in the world.

In this respect, a program of education and training designed particularly for TRNC diplomats has been concluded for the first time in our Ministry. The scope of the program has embraced Turkish – TRNC relations in all dimensions, all aspects of Turkish foreign policy, current regional and international affairs, career courses, and topics pertaining to personal development and general culture.

Valued Friends,

You will assume tasks in an institution which carries exceptional responsibilities as the window of your country to the outside world. You have been training for four months in Ankara to be better prepared for these responsibilities. Thus you are returning to your Ministry more informed and better equipped. Important duties await you in the coming period in the TRNC Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

I want you to never keep far from your mind; As you witnessed firsthand during your stay here, Turkey is at your side and will always be at your side. It will continue in the future as in the past, with all its institutions, to support the legitimate struggle of the Turkish Cypriot, and to do, with the same determination, whatever falls upon it, for the welfare and happiness of the Turkish Cypriot people.

2008 will be a year with Cyprus on the agenda. We would like a new process of negotiations to begin after the Greek Cypriot elections in February. The place and framework of a solution is the United Nations. The approach of the TRNC is constructive, as elucidated by the President Talat of the TRNC and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Avci during their recent visit. Turkey is ready to support this process. We would like all parties to properly evaluate the window of opportunity that will open up, and to take advantage of it. The whole world has seen in the aftermath of the Annan plan referenda that the Turkish side is for a solution. It has clearly transpired as to who does not want a solution and who benefits from the lack of a solution. Therefore we have to keep on reminding all relevant parties of the results of the referendum.

I congratulate all of you, and wish you every success.