The ministry reminded that the Ukraine’s Autonomous Republic of Crimea had been annexed by the Russian Federation, based on an illegitimate referendum held seven years ago today.

“We reiterate that we do not recognize the de-facto situation in the Peninsula which constitutes a breach of international law and confirm our support to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” the ministry noted.

“On this occasion, we underline one more time the importance we attach to the safety, well-being, and the protection of the cultural identity of the Crimean Tatar Turks, who are among the constituent people of Crimea,” the ministry emphasized.