Tatar calls for occupied North to be included in the EU

The Cyprus government has firmly rejected recent statements by Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar advocating for a two-state solution and the inclusion of the Turkish-occupied northern region of Cyprus in the European Union.

Victor Papadopoulos, Director of the Press Office for the President of the Republic of Cyprus, commented on Tatar’s proposal on Tuesday, emphasizing that such a solution is not new and is categorically unacceptable. He reiterated that Cyprus is already a member of the EU and that the framework for resolving the Cyprus issue has been established.

"Cyprus is a member of the EU and there is a provision for the solution of the Cyprus issue," Papadopoulos stated. He added that if Tatar and the Turkish side return to the negotiating table and agree on a bizonal bicommunal federation, "based on the discussions we have had so far, with the contribution of the EU, the Turkish Cypriot community will then enjoy all the benefits of the EU."

Papadopoulos also addressed an open letter by the UN Secretary-General’s personal envoy, María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, clarifying her stance on the negotiation process. He indicated that Holguín’s comments about moving away from unfulfilled expectations referred to the negotiation process, not Tatar’s statements.

Holguín is expected to present her report to the UN Secretary-General on Wednesday. In her open letter, she emphasized her continued efforts to seek a sustainable solution for a shared future in Cyprus. Papadopoulos underscored that Tatar’s two-state proposal does not align with this vision.

Papadopoulos highlighted President Nikos Christodoulides' readiness to engage constructively and support Holguín’s mission for a successful resolution. He also noted the strong cooperation between the Cypriot and Greek governments, with frequent discussions between President Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

"The President’s diplomatic efforts are continuous," Papadopoulos said, "with the aim of bringing the Turkish side back to the dialogue table for the resumption of peace talks."