A Step Backward As A Concession In Cyprus Is Out Of Question, Toptan

LEFKOSA - Turkish Parliament Speaker Koksal Toptan said Friday a step backward as a concession in Cyprus was out of the question in Turkey's relations with the European Union (EU).

Toptan met with the Parliament Speaker of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Hasan Bozer, in Lefkosa on Friday.

At a time of negotiations, such visits as currently made by Mr. Toptan give us political strength and make our morale better, Bozer said.

I hope that visits by the leaders of our two countries to each other take place more frequently, Bozer noted.

"The TRNC is our brother. There are very sincere relations between Turkey and the TRNC," Toptan said.

"Our relations have the goal of establishing a just and permanent peace in Cyprus. Turkey supports the negotiations conducted by the TRNC President Mehmet Ali Talat. In order to facilitate a permanent and just peace in Cyprus, the existence of two separate communities, two separate sovereignties, two separate democracies and two separate states must be accepted," Toptan said.

"Turkey will continue to do whatever is necessary for the tranquility, happiness and welfare of the TRNC. Despite the embargoes, the success achieved by the TRNC should be appreciated," Toptan said.

"With its 50,000 students and six universities, the TRNC is a country of education. With support in tourism, TRNC's future will be more bright," Toptan also said.

Toptan also met with the Commander of the Turkish Peace Forces General Hilmi Akin Zorlu on Friday. Toptan's meeting with Gen. Zorlu was closed to the press corps.