Answer of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Vladimir Norov to the question of the correspondent of the UzReport TV channel during a press conference following the Summit of the Organization of Turkic States

Question:

Question to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Norov.

You spoke in detail about the results of the summit of the Organization of Turkic States.

You noted that historic decisions have been adopted that enhance the authority and role of the Organization and contribute to the expansion of multifaceted cooperation between the countries of the region.

In this regard, I would like to ask a question that has recently been actively discussed by expert circles.

Was a separate decision signed today on the admission of Northern Cyprus as an observer state to the Organization?

If so, does this mean recognition of the status of Northern Cyprus as an independent state?

Thank you.

Answer:

Thanks for the question. First of all, I would like to clarify this issue.

Firstly, following the results of the summit, no separate decision on Northern Cyprus was signed.

Secondly, I would like to emphasize that Uzbekistan is strictly guided by the universally recognized principles and norms of international law, especially in matters of respect for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states.

In this regard, there can be no talk of recognizing Northern Cyprus as an independent state.

Thirdly, let me remind you that Northern Cyprus already has observer status in such international organizations as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Economic Cooperation Organization.

In addition, Northern Cyprus has been participating in the activities of the International Organization of Turkic Culture as an observer (TURKSOY) for almost 30 years.

And no one asks questions about this today.

The fact that the Turkish Cypriots are interested in closer exchanges and cooperation with kindred peoples of the countries of the Organization of Turkic States is a natural process.

Moreover, all these issues are regulated exclusively by the legal documents of the Organization and the legislation of our countries.