Tributes pouring in from all over the world dor Denktas

Denktas' political opponents from across the Cypriot divide also paid respects to the late leader, with Greek Cypriot President Demetris Christofias saying, "We can't agree naturally with Rauf Denktas's vision, that's reality, but it would be wrong at this time to make generalizations and accuse Denktas." The United States, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, OIC Secretary-General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu and others also offered their condolences. The United States expresses its condolences to the Denktas family and the Turkish Cypriot community for the loss of Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas, according to a message released by the US Embassy in Nicosia's northern side. It was also stated in the message that US is continuing its commitment to help finding a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue for the benefit of "all Cypriots." Ban's spokesperson's office said, "The secretary-general was saddened to learn of the passing of Rauf Denktas late Friday. Mr. Denktas was a long-serving and historic Turkish Cypriot leader with whom the United Nations had a long relationship in the framework of UN-facilitated talks for the reunification of Cyprus and related to its peacekeeping responsibilities on the island. The secretary-general expresses his condolences to the family of the late Mr. Denktas as well as to all Turkish Cypriots." The Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Ihsanoglu offered condolences as well. In his statement, Ihsanoglu described President Denktas as a historic leader and unforgettable hero of the Islamic and Turkish world and underlined that in his struggle for peace and stability for his country, President Denktas had been a role model for many politicians, particularly thanks to his wise and intelligent approach as well as integrity.