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In his New Year message, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar focused on the ongoing Cyprus problem and the economic challenges facing the Turkish Cypriot community. Tatar highlighted the importance of upcoming talks, including an expanded informal meeting set for March in Switzerland. This meeting will involve the two sides, the "motherlands" Greece and Turkey, the UN Secretary General, and a British representative. Tatar expressed hope that this gathering could pave the way for discussions on the future of the island and enhance cooperation between all parties.
Tatar also referred to the Turkish Cypriot community’s proposal for direct trade, direct flights, and direct contact, collectively known as "3D." The initiative, he explained, is intended to affirm the Turkish Cypriot community’s sovereign equality and equal international status. Tatar emphasized that these measures are crucial as they aim to break down barriers and strengthen the community’s recognition on the global stage.
On the political front, Tatar spoke about consultations with the UN Secretary General's Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Olgin Quayar. According to Tatar, these talks revealed a lack of common ground for restarting negotiations. While the Greek Cypriot side continues to support a federal solution, Tatar reiterated the Turkish Cypriot side’s stance for the recognition of their sovereign equality.
Efforts to Improve Relations and Open New Crossings
Tatar also touched on discussions with Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, particularly regarding the possibility of opening new crossing points, such as in Mia Milia. He expressed hope that the Greek Cypriot side would reconsider his proposal, emphasizing that new crossings could help improve relations and stimulate economic activity between the two communities.
Economic and Security Concerns
In his message, Tatar did not shy away from addressing the economic and security challenges faced by the Turkish Cypriot community. He claimed that the Turkish Cypriots have long been isolated and excluded by the Greek Cypriot side, particularly in negotiations for a federal solution. According to Tatar, the failure of these negotiations calls for a "new framework based on realities," which he believes would better reflect the current situation.
Tatar also expressed concerns about the Greek Cypriot side’s growing armament activities, accusing them of being a threat to the security of the Turkish Cypriot community. He affirmed that with Turkey’s support, the Turkish Cypriots are taking necessary measures to ensure their protection.
In addition to security issues, Tatar pointed to the ongoing challenges in the Turkish Cypriot economy. He highlighted problems in the real estate sector, restrictions on tourism, and obstacles in higher education. Tatar stressed the need for significant development in several key areas, including health, education, transport, energy, agriculture, tourism, and technology, to improve living standards and boost the region’s overall growth.
Looking forward, Tatar’s New Year message underscored the need for cooperation, both with the Greek Cypriot side and the international community, to address these issues and pave the way for a brighter future for the Turkish Cypriot community.
With information from CNA
