Afzal Khan, the UK's trade envoy to Turkey, has resigned amid widespread criticism over his recent visit to Northern Cyprus, a territory not recognized by the UK. The Labour MP for Manchester Rusholme faced backlash after meeting with Turkish-Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, an action deemed "absolutely condemnable" by the Cypriot government.

Khan, who visited the region last week, defended his trip as a personal endeavor during the parliamentary recess, emphasizing that it was unrelated to his official duties. He stated that he financed the visit himself, which included attending a family event and receiving an honorary degree. In a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Khan expressed his decision to resign to avoid distracting from the government's efforts to secure trade deals.

The visit sparked significant controversy, with the Cypriot foreign ministry labeling it an "illegal visit" and a provocative act. They welcomed Khan's resignation, interpreting it as a clear message against any tolerance for the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey.

The UK government confirmed Khan's departure, with shadow foreign minister Wendy Morton and shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel previously calling for his resignation. Christos Karaolis, President of the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK, stated that Khan's position was untenable following his visit.

The island of Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following a coup aimed at union with Greece, which led to a Turkish military intervention. The north declared independence in 1983, a move condemned by the UN and not recognized by the UK or other nations, except Turkey.