Turkish newspaper Star has presented a map published by US Central Command (CENTCOM) as showing the occupied north of Cyprus with distinct borders, arguing this bolsters Ankara’s longstanding position in favour of a two-state solution to the Cyprus problem.
The paper frames the map as evidence supporting Ankara’s stance, though CENTCOM’s own posting does not indicate that the US side linked the map to any change in policy on the Cyprus problem or to recognition of the “TRNC.”
Star says the boundary between the northern and southern parts of the island appears clearly marked on the map. According to the paper, the map attracted attention at a time when UN Secretary-General António Guterres is continuing efforts to restart the Cyprus problem process.
Star goes as far as to argue that the map gives “flesh and bones” to Turkey’s proposal for a two-state solution. The report links the map to a post about a Middle East tour by CENTCOM commander, Admiral Brad Cooper.
Star further argues the map’s depiction of “borders” is not accidental, noting that Gaza and the West Bank are also marked separately. From this, the Turkish paper concludes that it reflects a “deliberate choice” rather than a random cartographic depiction.
This conclusion, however, is Star’s own interpretation, not an official CENTCOM position on the Cyprus problem.
The Turkish paper places the issue within a broader context of developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean, linking it to Turkey’s recent declaration of new national maritime parks. It refers to the Fethiye-Kas area and the northern Aegean, presenting these moves as part of Ankara’s policy of the so-called “Blue Homeland.”
The report cites coverage by Turkish channel 24 TV, which describes a “tough battle” in the Aegean and Mediterranean and argues that Turkey is demonstrating it will not allow violations of what it considers its rights.
(Cyprus News Agency)
