Why is the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus recognized only by Turkey?

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is recognized only by Turkey because its establishment followed a unilateral declaration of independence in 1983, which occurred in the wake of the 1974 Turkish military intervention on the island.12

Following a 1974 coup by Greek-backed forces aiming for union with Greece, Turkey occupied the northern third of Cyprus to protect the interests of the Turkish Cypriot minority. This action resulted in a de facto partition of the island. When the TRNC subsequently declared itself an independent state in 1983, the international community did not grant it recognition. The United Nations Security Council condemned the declaration and has consistently demanded the withdrawal of foreign troops, maintaining that the Republic of Cyprus remains the sole legitimate authority on the island. Consequently, the TRNC remains internationally isolated, with Turkey serving as its only diplomatic partner.132