A high-toned confrontation took place between Geadis Geadi and Hulusi Akar at the Inter-parliamentary Conference on the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), held in Copenhagen.
On the final day of the two-day conference, former Turkish Minister of Defence Hulusi Akar launched an attack against the Republic of Cyprus. During the thematic session on “The Enlargement of Europe,” Hulusi Akar, referring to the Cyprus issue, claimed that it is not a matter of occupation, but on the contrary, that Turkey brought peace to the island in 1974. He also stated that Turkey is in favour of dialogue and seeks a solution to all problems.
According to a related announcement issued by the Cypriot MEP’s office, Mr. Geadi denounced the statement, calling it unacceptable. He emphasized that the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 was illegal, calling on Mr. Akar to study international law. He also noted that no country has the right to invade or occupy another sovereign state. Subsequently, he questioned whether in the Turkish language, the words “democracy” and “Europe” are interpreted through the genocides of the Armenians, the Greeks of Pontus, and Cyprus, adding that a country with a criminal record like Turkey has no place in Europe, either as a member or as a partner.
Mr. Akar then requested the floor again, accusing Mr. Geadi of using the conference platform for “hate speech” against Turkey, which, he said, undermines the unity of Europe.
The MEP of ELAM requested and received the floor once more, emphasizing that it is not a member of the European Parliament who undermines the unity of Europe, but states that seek to impose themselves through the force of arms. In conclusion, he categorically stated that Turkey cannot have a place in the European family as long as the occupation of Cyprus continues, as long as it does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, and as long as it does not contribute to the resolution of the issue of the missing persons.