ATAA Mourns the Passing of Honorable Rauf Denktas,
Founder and Former President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

The Assembly of Turkish American Associations mourns the passing of Honorable Rauf Denktas, founder and former president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, who was a leading figure in protecting Turkish Cypriots from annihilation at the hands of Greek and Greek Cypriots nationalists on the island of Cyprus (1963-1974) and helping Turkish Cypriots empower and govern themselves.

The Turkish Cypriots established the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1974. North Cyprus, recognized only by the Republic of Turkey, has in many respects governed itself and served its people better than most other small but recognized states. The Turkish Peace Operation helped bring tranquility and stability to the island where no one has lost life or limb in ethnic fighting since 1974. TRNC proved itself to be respectable member of the international community of nations.

The Assembly of Turkish American Associations Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, Professional Staff and Volunteers, express their condolences to the Denktas Family, and the Family of Turkish Cypriots on the island and in the diaspora.

We encourage Turkish Americans and Turkish Cypriots in the diaspora to visit the island to show your support to the Turkish Cypriot people and to breathe life into dream of Turkish Cypriot freedom, liberty and equality.

Peace be with you.

Ergun Kirlikovali
President
Assembly of Turkish American Associations

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