TRNC president: No return to Cyprus talks without recognition of sovereign equality

President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ersin Tatar, has stated that the Turkish Cypriot side will not return to formal negotiations on the Cyprus issue unless its sovereign equality and equal international status are officially recognised.

Speaking after an expanded informal meeting on Cyprus under UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York, Tatar said he came with a positive and constructive agenda, despite lingering uncertainty from the previous talks in Geneva, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

Tatar expressed concern over what he described as mounting pressure and perceived threats facing the Turkish Cypriot community, particularly stemming from the Greek Cypriot leadership.

“Many Turkish Cypriots now fear they may be detained or arrested when crossing to the southern side or when travelling abroad,” he said.

He reiterated that the island is home to “two peoples, two democracies, and two states,” each reflecting the will of its citizens.

“Any new formal negotiation process must be based on the realities on the ground and grounded in the principles of equality, justice and mutual respect,” he stated.

Tatar noted that the TRNC has strengthened its political stance over the past four years. “We will not return to the negotiating table unless our sovereign equality and equal international status are confirmed,” he declared.

Tatar voiced disappointment over the lack of agreement on opening four new crossing points through the buffer zone. He blamed the Greek Cypriot administration for insisting on military and other uses of the buffer zone, which, he claimed, made compromise impossible.

“The Turkish side cannot agree to this,” he said.

Despite the efforts of the UN Secretary-General, he added, no resolution has been reached due to Greek Cypriot resistance.

Responding to questions on mine clearance efforts, Tatar said the TRNC’s aim remains the complete demining of the island. However, he accused the Greek Cypriot side of being unwilling to clear certain areas.

Looking ahead, Tatar confirmed that another meeting with the Greek Cypriot leader could take place in September during the UN General Assembly. A further informal expanded meeting on Cyprus is expected by the end of the year.

By Aghakazim Guliyev