President Ersin Tatar of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to a two-state solution for the Cyprus issue during recent meetings in New York. Ahead of an informal dinner hosted by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, President Tatar emphasized the necessity of recognizing the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people. He also announced that the next UN meeting on Cyprus would include guarantor countries Türkiye and Greece, signaling a significant development in the ongoing efforts to resolve the longstanding conflict.

Firm Stance on Sovereign Equality

In his discussions with UN Secretary-General Guterres, President Tatar reiterated that any future negotiations must be based on the acknowledgment of the TRNC's sovereign equality. He stated, "We will not accept any negotiation process that does not recognize our equal international status. Our sovereign equality is non-negotiable."¹

President Tatar's firm stance reflects the Turkish Cypriot community's long-held position that previous negotiation processes have failed due to the Greek Cypriot administration's reluctance to share power and resources equitably. The insistence on a two-state solution acknowledges the realities on the island and aims to establish a sustainable and mutually acceptable framework for coexistence.

Inclusion of Türkiye and Greece in Upcoming Talks

A notable outcome of the meetings in New York is the agreement to include Türkiye and Greece in the next round of UN-facilitated discussions on Cyprus. President Tatar highlighted the importance of involving the guarantor countries, stating, "The presence of Türkiye and Greece is crucial in the negotiation process. Their participation will contribute to a more comprehensive and balanced dialogue."²

The inclusion of Türkiye and Greece aligns with the historical context of the Cyprus issue, where both countries, along with the United Kingdom, are guarantor powers under the 1960 Treaty of Guarantee. Their involvement is expected to facilitate a more inclusive approach that considers the security concerns and interests of all parties involved.

Emphasis on Historical Realities

President Tatar underscored the need to acknowledge the historical events that have shaped the current situation in Cyprus. He pointed out that the Turkish Cypriot people's struggle dates back to 1963 when constitutional order was disrupted, leading to the marginalization and oppression of Turkish Cypriots.

"Our people have faced injustices and isolation since 1963. Any solution must address these historical grievances and ensure that such injustices are not repeated," he asserted.¹

By emphasizing the historical context, President Tatar seeks to remind the international community of the Turkish Cypriot community's experiences and the importance of addressing past injustices to pave the way for a fair and lasting solution.

Response to Greek Cypriot Position

The Greek Cypriot administration, led by President Nikos Christodoulides, continues to advocate for a reunification based on a federal model. However, President Tatar has expressed skepticism about the viability of this approach, citing past failures and the Greek Cypriot side's unwillingness to share governance equitably.

"We have tried federation talks for decades without success. The Greek Cypriot side has consistently rejected proposals that would ensure political equality. It is time to consider a realistic and workable solution," President Tatar remarked.³

He further stressed that any new negotiation process must not repeat the mistakes of the past and should be built on mutual respect and recognition of the existing realities on the island.

Support from Türkiye

Türkiye has been a steadfast supporter of the TRNC's position on the Cyprus issue. Following the meetings in New York, Turkish officials reiterated their backing of the two-state solution and the inclusion of guarantor countries in the negotiation process.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated, "A just and lasting solution in Cyprus can only be achieved by recognizing the sovereign equality of the Turkish Cypriot people. We fully support President Tatar's efforts and the inclusion of guarantor states in the talks."⁴

Türkiye's support underscores the regional significance of the Cyprus issue and the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders.

UN's Role and Expectations

The United Nations has been facilitating efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue for decades. The inclusion of Türkiye and Greece in upcoming meetings reflects an acknowledgment of the complexities involved and the need for a broader dialogue.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed hope for progress, stating, "We are committed to supporting a solution that is acceptable to both communities in Cyprus. The involvement of guarantor countries is a positive step towards achieving this goal."⁵

However, the UN has yet to officially comment on the specifics of the negotiation framework or the potential for recognizing the TRNC's sovereign equality.

International Community's Response

The international community's reaction to the developments has been mixed. While some countries express support for renewed dialogue, others remain committed to the existing UN parameters, which focus on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation.

European Union High Representative Josep Borrell reiterated the EU's stance, saying, "The EU supports a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem within the UN framework, based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality."⁶

Despite such positions, President Tatar remains resolute in advocating for a solution that reflects the current realities and ensures the rights and security of the Turkish Cypriot people.

Call for a New Negotiation Framework

The TRNC leadership advocates for a negotiation framework that moves beyond the failed models of the past. President Tatar emphasizes that any meaningful progress requires a fresh approach that recognizes the existence of two separate states on the island.

"We need to establish a relationship based on cooperation between two sovereign states. This is the only realistic path forward that can guarantee peace and stability for both communities," he affirmed.¹

The call for a new framework is rooted in the belief that continued insistence on a federal solution ignores the historical grievances and the lack of trust resulting from past experiences.

Addressing Security Concerns

Security remains a critical aspect of the Cyprus issue. The Turkish Cypriot side emphasizes the importance of guarantees for their safety and well-being, particularly given the historical context of intercommunal violence.

President Tatar highlighted, "Our security concerns are legitimate and must be addressed. The presence of Türkiye as a guarantor power is essential for the protection of the Turkish Cypriot people."³

The inclusion of Türkiye and Greece in the negotiations is seen as a way to directly address these concerns and work towards mutually acceptable security arrangements.

TCE Conclusion: A Step Towards Realistic Solutions

The recent meetings in New York represent a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue. President Ersin Tatar's firm stance on sovereign equality and the inclusion of guarantor countries signal a push for a more realistic and practical approach to negotiations.

The TRNC's position emphasizes the need to acknowledge historical realities, address security concerns, and establish a framework that reflects the current situation on the island. While challenges remain, the involvement of all relevant parties offers an opportunity to move beyond stalemates and work towards a solution that ensures peace, stability, and prosperity for both the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities.

"We are ready to engage in meaningful dialogue, but it must be based on mutual respect and recognition. The time has come to embrace a new vision for Cyprus," President Tatar concluded.¹

References

1. Tatar, E. (2023). Statements during meetings in New York. TRNC Presidential Office.
2. Tatar, E. (2023). Announcement on inclusion of Türkiye and Greece in UN talks. Anadolu Agency.
3. Tatar, E. (2023). Interview with Daily Sabah.
4. Fidan, H. (2023). Press conference supporting TRNC's position. Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
5. Guterres, A. (2023). Remarks on Cyprus negotiations. United Nations News.
6. Borrell, J. (2023). EU's position on Cyprus issue. European External Action Service.