Newsroom / CNA
Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar stated that he does not accept the opening of crossing points in the Kokkina and Athienou areas. Following his meeting today with Colin Stewart, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative and head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, Tatar emphasized that they are awaiting a new proposal, which they expect to review in the new year.
Tatar expressed willingness to meet face-to-face with President Christodoulides if conditions are favorable, but stressed that there must be specific and concrete issues on the table for discussion.
Discussing his meeting with Stewart, Tatar underscored the importance of collaboration between the two sides on various issues that, in his words, would benefit “both peoples.”
He highlighted that his administration never avoids dialogue. Over the past four years, he and his team have consistently worked to ensure the operation of the Technical Committees and promote cooperation between the two sides on an "equal footing."
"There is no final solution to the Cyprus issue at present. However, until that happens, I reiterated today the importance of cooperation between the two sides on various issues that would benefit both ‘peoples,’" he stated.
Tatar noted that there is mutual understanding regarding the opening of some crossing points, which is acceptable to both sides. He described the opening of a crossing at Mia Milia as particularly important, explaining that it would facilitate trade and improve operations under the Green Line Regulation. He also mentioned that this would ease congestion at the Ayios Dometios checkpoint.
In addition, Tatar reminded Stewart about the Arsos-Pyla road project, stressing the need for its completion.
On the prospect of an expanded meeting on the Cyprus issue involving the guarantor powers, Tatar mentioned that UN Deputy Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo is expected to visit Cyprus in January to prepare for such discussions. He stated that the meeting is anticipated to take place in February or March.
According to Tatar, Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot side will participate in this meeting to present their perspective on the future of Cyprus. He reiterated that any negotiation process must begin with the “recognition of sovereign equality and equal international status” for the Turkish Cypriots.
Tatar suggested that informal meetings could be held to exchange views and foster dialogue on cooperation “based on equality.”
He also remarked that the regional balance is shifting and claimed that “the importance and status” of the Turkish Cypriot administration are being elevated.
Finally, Tatar noted that Stewart is scheduled to travel to the United States for a UN Security Council briefing. He referred to María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar’s report, which highlighted the lack of common ground between the two sides, and stressed that this observation should be included in the upcoming report on the UN’s good offices mission.
