Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç released a message on the 14th passing anniversary of Rauf Raif Denktaş, the founding President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The message released by Prof. Dr. Kılıç reads as follows:
“We commemorate the Founding President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the symbolic leader of the Turkish Cypriot people’s struggle for freedom and existence, the late Rauf Raif Denktaş, with respect and gratitude on the 14th anniversary of his passing.
With his stance, long-sightedness and unshaken willpower, Rauf Raif Denktaş was an exceptional statesman who devoted his entire life to defending the rights and freedoms of the Turkish Cypriot people. He led the struggle for the Turkish community’s existence in Cyprus, laid the foundation for our Republic, and played a key role in the steps toward our people’s independence. Denktaş’s profound efforts and sacrifices stand at the core of the freedom, sovereignty, and state structure that the Turkish Cypriot people possess today.
Our late Founding President is remembered not merely as a political figure, but also as an influential thinker whose ideas, works, and spirit of struggle continue to inspire and guide future generations.
Today, as Eastern Mediterranean University, we steadfastly continue our efforts to advance the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, his enduring legacy, and to ensure that it claims its rightful place on the international stage. On this occasion, we respectfully and gratefully commemorate Rauf Raif Denktaş, honoring his cherished memory with love and reverence.”