The Turkish-Cypriot administration on Wednesday accused the Greek-Cypriot side of “distorting history” and evading responsibility for the Cyprus problem in a strongly worded letter to the United Nations.  

The letter, sent by Mehmet Dana, the so-called “representative” of the breakaway state in northern Cyprus, claims Greek-Cypriots have “misled the international community” and bear “sole responsibility” for the island’s decades-long division.  

It was addressed to Jérôme Bonnafont, France’s president of the UN security council for April, in response to a recent speech by Cyprus’ permanent representative during an open security council debate on UN peacekeeping missions.  

Dana argued that the Turkish military presence in Cyprus, which followed the 1974 invasion, “does not constitute occupation” and is instead “legitimate and justified” under international treaties.  

He also accused Greek-Cypriots of exploiting the absence of Turkish-Cypriot representation in international forums to push a “one-sided narrative.”  

“The Greek-Cypriot side must demonstrate sincerity in seeking a solution based on the island’s current realities,” the letter stated, insisting any settlement must respect the “inherent rights” of Turkish-Cypriots.  

The letter further criticised the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (Unfycip), claiming its operations violate the “principle of consent from both sides.” The Turkish-Cypriot side demands explicit approval for Unfycip’s activities in the north.  

It also reiterated that the republic of Cyprus, recognised internationally as the island’s sole legitimate government, does not represent Turkish-Cypriots and called for direct talks between the two communities rather than with Turkey.