The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is a state located in the northern part of the island of Cyprus in the east of the Mediterranean and is not recognized by any country other than Turkey. Standing out with its geographical location, rich history, political structure and cultural characteristics, the TRNC has both strategic importance and continues to develop as a tourism and education center. Cyprus is among the largest islands in the Mediterranean. It is the third largest island after Sicily and Sardinia. Cyprus is located between 34º33’ and 35º42’ North latitudes and 32º16’ and 34º36’ East longitudes. Turkey is 70 km away in the north, Syria is 102 km away in the east, Lebanon is 165 km away; Israel is 233 km away in the southeast, the Greek Cypriot Administration is in the south and Egypt is 347 km away; and Greece is 835 km away in the northwest.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus participated as an Observer Member during the Samarkand Summit of the Organization of Turkic States in November 2022.

Geographic and Demographic Features

TRNC has a surface area of ??approximately 3,355 km² and covers the northern part of the island of Cyprus. Its capital is Lefkosa (Turkish part), and other important cities are Kyrenia, Gazimagusa, Güzelyurt and Iskele. While the Kyrenia Mountains and beaches along the coast are striking in the north, the interior of the island is covered with agricultural areas. Its climate exhibits Mediterranean climate characteristics: summers are hot and dry, and winters are mild. TRNC"s population is around 350-400 thousand. The population consists of Turkish Cypriots, immigrants from Turkey and foreign students. Thanks to education and tourism, many foreign nationals also live in TRNC for short or long periods.

Historical Background

Cyprus Island has attracted the attention of many civilizations throughout history due to its strategic location. Ancient Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans ruled this region. Cyprus remained under Ottoman rule for over 300 years after the Ottoman Empire conquered the island in 1571. In 1878, the Ottoman Empire leased the island"s administration to the British, and in 1914, the British unilaterally annexed the island. In 1960, Cyprus was established as an independent Republic, and a system was developed in which both Turkish and Greek communities participated in the administration with equal rights. However, disagreements soon broke out between the two communities, and the first violent clashes began on the island in 1963. In 1974, with the reflection of the military coup in Greece on Cyprus, a coup attempt was made on the island, and plans were made to connect Cyprus to Greece (Enosis). Thereupon, Turkey deployed troops to the island with the Cyprus Peace Operation on July 20, 1974, and took control of the northern part of the region. On November 15, 1983, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was officially declared. Political Structure and International Relations The TRNC has a multi-party democratic system of government. The President is the highest authority in the state and is elected for a 5-year term. In the current political system, the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers have executive authority. The TRNC"s legislative body is the 50-seat Assembly of the Republic. The TRNC is recognized internationally only by Turkey. Other countries officially recognize Cyprus as the "Republic of Cyprus" and accept the Greek Cypriot administration on the island as the legitimate government. For this reason, the TRNC is under embargoes and diplomatic restrictions. However, there are strong economic, military and cultural ties between Turkey and the TRNC. Many international organizations, especially the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU), have been negotiating for years to find a solution to the Cyprus problem. In the Annan Plan referendum held in 2004, although the Turkish Cypriots showed a pro-solution stance and said "yes" to the plan, the unification process failed because the Greek Cypriot side voted "no".

Economy

The TRNC economy is largely dependent on Turkey"s support. Economic activities in the country are limited due to embargoes and lack of international recognition. However, tourism, education, agriculture and the service sector are important elements of the economy. Tourism: TRNC attracts tourists with its coastline, historical ruins and casinos, especially in the Kyrenia, Famagusta and Karpaz regions. Hotels and resorts are in high demand during the summer season.Education: There are many international universities in the country. The interest of foreign students in TRNC makes a significant contribution to the economy. Many students, especially from Turkey and Middle Eastern countries, receive higher education in TRNC. Agriculture: Citrus fruits, olives, grapes and vegetables are grown in the fertile lands of the TRNC. Agriculture is an important source of income, especially in the Güzelyurt region.

Cultural and Social Structure

The cultural structure of the TRNC has been shaped by the traditional values ??of the Turkish Cypriots and the contributions of the population from Turkey. Language: The official language is Turkish, but English is widely spoken. English is an important language of communication in educational institutions and touristic areas. Religion: The majority of the population is Muslim, but a secular lifestyle has been adopted. Religious holidays and national days are celebrated with importance. Food Culture: TRNC cuisine bears influences from both Mediterranean and Turkish cuisines. Unique flavors such as hellim cheese, peach kebab, and molohiya stand out. Education: The level of education in the TRNC is high. In the country where many international universities operate, the education sector is also of great economic importance. Institutions such as Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) and Near East University (YDU) offer students a wide range of opportunities. Health: Health services are provided by both the state and private sectors. Lefkosa State Hospital and various private hospitals serve the public and tourists. However, Turkey"s support in health services also plays an important role.

Conclusion

Despite the difficulties it has experienced throughout history, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus has been a state that has preserved its identity and is determined to shape its future. Despite its lack of international recognition, it has made significant strides in the fields of education, tourism and culture. Its close relationship with Turkey and its strategic location have great potential for the future development of the TRNC. While the TRNC continues to be one of the focal points of negotiations for the solution of the Cyprus problem, the island"s bi-communal structure and the balances in the region reveal the complexity of the solution process.