Cyprus is set to protest against attempts to upgrade the status of the self-styled Turkish Cypriot regime, in occupied Cyprus, in the ranks of the Organisation of Islamic Conference.

Foreign Minister Erato Kozakou Markoulli has told the Athens News Agency that demarches will be made to the UN, the EU and the OIC if statements by the Organisation’s General Secretary favouring such a moveare proven to be true.

The OIC General Secretary appeared positive to an application by the Turkish Cypriot regime to upgrade its status within the OIC and be given the status of a permanent representation, instead of observer.

“If these statements are true, then we are talking about a move originating not only from Ankara but also from the illegal regime to embark on a campaign to implement plan B with regard to a political settlement in Cyprus,” she said, referring to recent threats against Cyprus that, unless there is a solution by July 1st, the Turkish side will seek recognition of the Turkish Cypriot regime, which at present is only recognized by Ankara and the UN have branded “legally invalid.”