The decades-long stalemate between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the Greek Cypriot administration persists, with little hope for resolution.

The core issue remains the Greek Cypriots' refusal to recognize the sovereignty of Northern Cyprus, a prerequisite for meaningful negotiations, as emphasized by TRNC President Ersin Tatar during a recent extraordinary session of the TRNC Parliament.

Current Stance and Sovereignty Demands

President Tatar has been vocal about the need for equal sovereignty as a foundation for any negotiations. During the parliamentary session, he stated, "Our current stance, supported by Türkiye, is towards the recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)". This position is crucial for the TRNC, which views any negotiation without sovereignty recognition as inherently biased and futile.

Türkiye's Role and the Two-State Solution

Türkiye has consistently supported the TRNC's call for a two-state solution, advocating for both states to coexist with equal sovereignty. This approach is seen as the only viable path forward by the TRNC leadership. President Tatar reaffirmed Türkiye's support, noting, "Our current stance, which is fully supported and advocated by Ankara, is the recognition of the TRNC". This support is crucial in maintaining the TRNC's position on the international stage and pushing for a two-state solution that respects the sovereignty and equality of both entities.

Lack of Common Ground

The fundamental issue blocking progress in Cyprus negotiations is the lack of common ground. President Tatar's recent discussions with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Representative for Cyprus, Maria Angela Holguin, underscored this impasse. "There is no common ground for restarting the negotiation process," Tatar noted, emphasizing that the Greek Cypriots' refusal to acknowledge the TRNC's sovereignty remains the primary obstacle.

The ongoing discussions since 1968 have yet to yield definitive results, largely due to the Greek Cypriot administration's inflexible stance on a federal solution. This proposed solution, which aims to unify the island under a single government, is seen by Turkish Cypriots as a threat to their autonomy and security. As President Tatar explained, “We must remain patient. Strengthening our bilateral relations with Azerbaijan is crucial”.

International Responsibility

The international community plays a significant role in perpetuating the current deadlock by failing to recognize the TRNC. This lack of recognition emboldens the Greek Cypriots to maintain their intransigent position. A reassessment by global powers is essential to facilitate a dialogue based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. The TRNC continues to call for a two-state solution, urging international actors to acknowledge the realities on the ground and support a fair and lasting resolution.

The ongoing impasse in Cyprus negotiations highlights the necessity for mutual recognition of sovereignty. The TRNC, backed by Türkiye, remains steadfast in its call for a two-state solution as the only viable path to peace. Until the Greek Cypriot administration and the international community recognize the sovereignty of Northern Cyprus, meaningful progress will remain elusive.

The TRNC's commitment to sovereignty and equality is clear. As President Tatar stated, “With the success of our new policy, wherever we are, people will have the opportunity to learn the realities of the TRNC”. The hope for a peaceful resolution lies in the acceptance of two equal and sovereign states, coexisting side by side on the island of Cyprus.