The last was remembered for the proximity of relationships between Azerbaijan and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which has been in isolation for many years. First the Azerbaijani parliamentary delegation visited the TRNC. After some days the Central Civil Aviation Department of the Transport Ministry of TRNC allowed the commencement of the Baku-Lefkoshe-Baku flights by the Azerbaijani air company, Imair Airlines.
Meanwhile, the rectorate of the Middle East University (MEU) of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus made a resolution to approve scholarships for the Azerbaijani students during a day Azerbaijani-Cypriot economic forum held in Lefkoshu.
So far the TRNC was the only Turkic country which did not have relationships with Azerbaijan. There were no diplomatic bonds between the two countries. It was explained by an embargo imposed in regard to Northern Cypriots. However, following the support to UN Secretary General Cofi Annan’s plans, the head of UN de-facto recognized the independence of the TRNC and called on all countries to assist in soon removal of the ТRNC from isolation. The Greek Cypriots did not back Annan’s plans.
Long awaiting such proximity the leadership of the separatist regime in Nagorno-Karabakh immediately demonstrated activity. However, there are two major milestones which make the statements by separatists. Firstly, only business circles strengthen the relationships with the TRNC, while their actions do not reflect the Azerbaijani government’s position. Secondly, the independence of the TRNC was recognized on the higher level. No world country has recognized the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh and still regard it as an inseparable part of Azerbaijan. Besides, a report by PACE co-rapporteur on Nagorno Karabakh, David Atkinson, recognized Armenia as aggressor and indicates the facts of ethnic cleansing against the people of Azerbaijan. Beliefs on the recognition of the separatist regime, based on separatist idea and mono-ethnic establishment, by the international community is nothing on else than utopia.