Greek Cypriots Rejection of the CCC in favour of federalist model

Background

In the recent article titled "Geneva informal meeting: Another missed opportunity to realize full prospects of Cyprus," published by Daily Sabah, Hüseyin Işıksal highlighted the categorical refusal of acceptance for the Comprehensive Cooperation Concept (CCC) proposal put forward by the TRNC.

The CCC proposal outlined a framework for structured collaboration between the two existing states on the island, emphasizing mutual respect and functional coexistence. This proposal sought to establish formalized mechanisms for trade, energy sharing, border cooperation, and diplomatic engagement, aligning with the principles of sovereign equality.

The Greek Cypriot side dismissed the proposal outright, maintaining its unwavering commitment to a federation-based resolution, despite decades of failed negotiations. This fundamental disagreement led to a stalemate, resulting in yet another missed opportunity to fully realize the prospects of a comprehensive solution for Cyprus.

Additionally, the Greek Cypriot side has dismissed Turkish Cypriot proposals perceived as attempts to elevate the status of the Turkish Cypriot administration to that of an equivalent legitimate authority, viewing such initiatives as potential steps toward formal partition.

Current Developments

The Greek Cypriot bias against the Turkish Cypriots has continuied in an unrelentless manner maintaining the ongoing impass.

"Any solution must strictly adhere to the framework of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation as outlined in UN resolutions. Any deviation from this is unacceptable." Reuters, 2025

Similarly, Greek Cypriot government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis reinforced this position:

"There can be no recognition of an illegal entity. The only legitimate path forward is a federation-based agreement within the UN framework." Crisis Group, 2025

These statements underscore the Greek Cypriot administration’s outright rejection of alternative solutions such as the CCC and the broader two-state vision proposed by the TRNC.

"The Turkish Cypriot side argued that it was time to establish a functional and formal relationship between the two sides." Daily Sabah

This statement encapsulates the core issue at hand: the need for a paradigm shift in addressing the Cyprus problem. The traditional approach of seeking a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation has repeatedly failed, necessitating a fresh perspective that acknowledges the realities on the ground.

The Stalemate in Geneva

The "Informal Meeting on Cyprus in Broader Format" held in Geneva on March 17-18, 2025, was anticipated to be a platform for meaningful dialogue. The United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) António Guterres had expressed hope that the meeting would "serve to renew dialogue and mark the start of a more positive dynamic for the future." However, the outcome was yet another impasse, primarily due to the Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides's outright rejection of the Turkish Cypriot proposal for future cooperation. This proposal aimed at establishing a functional and formal relationship between the two sides, reflecting a pragmatic approach to move forward.

The Greek Cypriot administration's persistent adherence to the status quo undermines the prospects for a sustainable solution. Their reluctance to engage in constructive dialogue and explore alternative solutions perpetuates the division and hampers the development of the entire island.

The Case for a Two-State-Solution

Given the repeated failures of negotiations based on a federal solution, it is imperative to consider alternative approaches tha reflect the current realities. The TRNC's proposal for a two-state solution is grounded in the principles of sovereign equality and equal international status. This approach acknowledges the existence of two distinct peoples with their own governance structures, cultures, and aspirations.

The essence of this proposal is to secure the inherent sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people. This would pave the way for establishing a cooperative relationship between the two states, focusing on mutual interests and shared prosperity.

International Community's Role

The international community's recognition of the Greek Cypriot administration as the sole legitimate authority on the island has contributed to the current deadlock. This unequal treatment has emboldened the Greek Cypriot side to maintain a rigid stance, knowing that their position is bolstered by international support. To break this cycle, there must be a concerted effort to acknowledge the realities on the ground and engage with the TRNC on an equal footing.

The United Nations, as the facilitator of these talks, has a pivotal role in ensuring that both sides are treated with equal respect and consideration. The UNSG's call for "a mutually acceptable way forward on the Cyprus issue" should translate into actions that promote genuine equality and recognition.

TCE Conclusion

The repeated failures of past negotiations highlight the need for a new approach that embraces the concept of two sovereign states coexisting peacefully. This solution aligns with the principles of self-determination and respects the distinct identities of both the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot peoples.

It is incumbent upon the international community to support this paradigm shift by:

• Recognizing the TRNC's Sovereignty: Acknowledging the TRNC as a sovereign state with equal international status is a crucial step toward a lasting solution.
• Facilitating Direct Dialogue: Encouraging direct and unconditional talks between the two states to address practical issues and build trust.
• Promoting Economic Cooperation: Supporting initiatives that foster economic collaboration, benefiting both communities and enhancing regional stability.

The path to a sustainable solution lies in embracing the realities of the island's division and working towards a future where both states can coexist peacefully and prosperously. The time has come for the international community to act decisively and support the legitimate aspirations of the Turkish Cypriot people for equal recognition and sovereignty.