The recent article criticizing President Ersin Tatar’s decision to reject a UN meeting invitation overlooks the fundamental realities and historical grievances of the Turkish Cypriot community.

As TCE it is crucial to present a robust defense of the TRNC’s stance, underscoring the legitimate reasons behind Tatar’s decision and the broader implications for Turkish Cypriots and the region.

Misleading Claims: Setting the Record Straight

The Greek leader’s claim that Tatar's refusal shows contempt for the Turkish Cypriots and the international community is fundamentally flawed. This accusation ignores the Greek side's consistent refusal to recognize the TRNC as an equal partner in negotiations. The Greek side’s approach has been to perpetuate a status quo that undermines the TRNC’s sovereignty and security.

Contrary to these assertions, it is the UN itself that has acknowledged the lack of grounds for new discussions under the current framework. The UN’s recognition that the conditions are not conducive for meaningful talks validates President Tatar’s decision. As Tatar aptly put it, “We cannot engage in negotiations designed to perpetuate our subordination.”

Advocating for Genuine Dialogue

President Tatar has always maintained that any dialogue must recognize the equal status of the Turkish Cypriots. The repeated failures of past negotiations, driven by the Greek side's intransigence, underscore the need for a new approach. The TRNC is not opposed to dialogue; it is opposed to a process that inherently disadvantages one party. As Tatar stated, “We are open to negotiations that recognize our equal status and ensure our security.”

The Greek leader’s readiness to meet the UN Secretary-General is a positive gesture, but it must be accompanied by a sincere willingness to engage with the TRNC as equals. Without this fundamental shift, any talks are destined to repeat past failures.

Historical Context: A Legacy of Injustice

To understand the current situation, one must first appreciate the historical context. The division of Cyprus did not begin in 1974, as is commonly misconstrued, but rather in 1963 with then-President Makarios’s unconstitutional amendments. This initiated a campaign to gradually remove Turkish Cypriots from government, pushing them out of society. The formation of EOKA and the involvement of the Greek National Guard led to a prolonged period of ethnic cleansing and genocide against the Turkish Cypriots. This violence persisted for 11 years, culminating in a coup attempt by Greece on July 15, 1974, which prompted Türkiye’s intervention on July 20, 1974, to protect the Turkish Cypriot population.

International Recognition: A Path Forward

For a sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue, the international community must acknowledge the TRNC's sovereignty and the Turkish Cypriots' right to self-determination. This recognition is essential not only for political balance but also for ensuring peace and stability in the region. The TRNC’s demand is simple: a fair and unbiased negotiation framework that respects the sovereignty and rights of both communities.

The UN and other international actors must facilitate a dialogue that is genuinely fair. As President Tatar emphasized, “We are committed to peace and cooperation, but it must be on terms that respect our identity and our rights.” This stance is not a rejection of dialogue but a call for equity and justice.

TCE Conclusion

The criticism aimed at President Tatar’s decision to reject the UN meeting invitation is baseless and overlooks the broader context of the Cyprus issue. The Greek side and the international community must recognize the TRNC’s sovereignty and engage in sincere, balanced negotiations. Only through such an approach can a fair and lasting resolution be achieved for all Cypriots.

The Turkish Cypriots stand firm in their pursuit of justice and equality, and any future negotiations must reflect these fundamental principles.