In the message issued on the occasion of the 52nd Aniversary of Cyprus Peace Operation, Rector of Kyrgyz-Turkish “Manas” university Prof. Dr Alpaslan Ceylan stated: “On the 52nd anniversary of the July 20 Cyprus Peace Operation, we respectfully commemorate this historic day, which holds profound significance for the security, peace, and future of the Turkish Cypriot people.
The Cyprus issue has remained on the agenda of the international community for many years, with developments on the island having significant implications for regional peace and stability. The Peace Operation carried out on 20 July 1974 is remembered as a historic turning point aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the Turkish Cypriot community and restoring the constitutional order. More than half a century later, this date continues to stand as an important milestone that has strengthened the identity, cultural heritage, and social solidarity of the Turkish Cypriot people.
In the Turkish Cypriot people's struggle for rights and justice, Founding President Rauf Raif Denktaş left an indelible mark through his foresight, diplomatic acumen, and exemplary statesmanship. His leadership made significant contributions to the institutional development of the Turkish Cypriot community and has secured him a distinguished place in the shared historical memory of the Turkic world.
Today, the principles of dialogue, mutual understanding, international law, and lasting peace remain essential in discussions concerning the future of the Turkish Cypriot community. In this context, constructive approaches that prioritize the prosperity, security, and confidence of the Turkish Cypriot people in their future are of great value for regional stability.
As Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, we regard it as an important responsibility to preserve and pass on to future generations the shared values of the Turkic world, bound together by common historical, linguistic, and cultural ties. We firmly believe that enhanced cooperation in the fields of science, education, and culture will further strengthen friendship, mutual understanding, and solidarity among our peoples, while contributing to our shared future.
On this meaningful anniversary, I respectfully commemorate, first and foremost, Founding President Rauf Raif Denktaş, as well as the statesmen who devoted themselves to the future of the Turkish Cypriot people. I honor the memory of those who have passed away and extend my deepest gratitude to our veterans. I sincerely hope that 20 July will continue to contribute to lasting peace, mutual trust, and shared prosperity throughout the region.
Prof. Dr Alpaslan Ceylan
Rector of Kyrgyz-Turkish "Manas" university