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NEW YORK Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Asia

Cyprus Spokesman Criticizes Turkey's UN Secretary Candidate

Cyprus' government condemns Turkey's UN Secretary-General bid as hypocritical and contradictory.

New York Editorial News Desk November 2, 2026 1 min read

The Brief

  • Cyprus' government spokesman calls Turkey's UN candidate a 'political paradox'.
  • Turkey's 52-year occupation of Cyprus is cited as a key issue.
  • Security Council will evaluate candidates based on their stance toward international law.

Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis criticized Turkey's nomination of Feridun Sinirlioglu for the UN Secretary-General position, calling it a 'political paradox and a profound institutional contradiction.'

Letymbiotis stated that Turkey's decision to submit a candidate was anticipated, and he claimed the move highlights the country's hypocrisy, as noted by the President of the Republic.

He emphasized that Turkey's ongoing occupation of 37% of Cyprus, a UN member state, and its disregard for Security Council resolutions make its bid to lead the UN contradictory to its founding principles.

The spokesman also mentioned Turkey's alleged violations of international law, the UN Charter, and the Law of the Sea, as well as its involvement in regional conflicts and human rights abuses.

Letymbiotis argued that Turkey's actions contradict the Organization's mission, stating that one cannot seek to lead the UN while refusing to respect its foundational principles.

Regarding the selection process for the next Secretary-General, Letymbiotis said it is at an advanced stage and influenced by institutional and diplomatic factors.

He added that the Security Council will assess candidates based on their qualifications and the stance of their nominating country toward international law and UN decisions.

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