50 years ago, the heroic Mehmetciks took a historic step to destroy any attempt at Turkish Cypriot independence. On that day, we showed the whole world that Turkish Cypriots are not alone and will never be alone.

Axar.az reports that President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan said these words at the event held in Nicosia on the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation.

He said that Turkiye is open to negotiations for peace.

"It is impossible to get anywhere without seeing the realities on the island. We believe that a federal solution is not possible in Cyprus. Up to now, Turkish Cypriots and Turkiye have been the ones who sincerely wanted a solution, made sacrifices for it, took risks, and showed will. We are ready for discussion, to ensure permanent peace and solution to the problem in Cyprus. We will not leave any hand in the air that is extended on the way to a solution."