Cem Gürdeniz reacts to iGeo 2026: Representation of Southern Cyprus contradicts foreign policy sensitivities

Retired Admiral Cem Gürdeniz has reacted to the representation of the Greek Cypriot Administration at the 22nd International Geography Olympiad (iGeo 2026) held in Turkey.

In a post on his X account, Gürdeniz stated that the Greek Cypriot Administration, which Ankara does not recognize, participated in the organization hosted by the Turkish Geographical Society between August 11-17, 2026.

Drawing attention to the medal ceremony in his post, Gürdeniz stated that the delegation was announced as the "Republic of Cyprus" and the flag of the Greek Cypriot Administration was displayed. Gürdeniz emphasized that, in contrast, the TRNC, which is recognized by Turkey, did not take part in the organization.

Gürdeniz recalled that a similar controversy occurred during the 7th Süleymanpaşa Optimist Cup held in August 2024, organized in cooperation with the Tekirdağ Governorship, the Tekirdağ Sailing Club, and the Turkish Sailing Federation. He noted that he had previously criticized the invitation of the Greek Cypriot Administration to those races and the display of its flag at the opening ceremony.

Of course, international organizations have their own membership and participation rules. However, the host country also has its own foreign policy principles and national sensitivities.

Gürdeniz reminded that Turkey does not recognize the Greek Cypriot Administration as the "Republic of Cyprus" representing the whole of Cyprus, and that the TRNC is a state recognized by the Republic of Turkey. For this reason, he argued that the representation of the Greek side on behalf of all of Cyprus at an international event held in Turkey, while Turkish Cypriot youth are left out, is a "contradiction that must be addressed with seriousness."

Calling for inter-institutional coordination in his post, Gürdeniz stated that the fact that a similar sensitivity has come to the agenda again two years after the organization in Tekirdağ shows the need for stronger coordination among relevant institutions, primarily the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Stating that the Turkish Geographical Society is an institution that should closely follow Turkey's geopolitical sensitivities, Gürdeniz expressed that the matter should have been coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prior to the organization.

Gürdeniz stated that while efforts are being made to reduce the isolation faced by the Turkish Cypriot people in the international arena, the reproduction of this isolation in organizations within Turkey should not be permitted.