Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar stated on Friday that he has no expectations for progress on the Cyprus problem in the new year.
In an interview with Kibris newspaper, Tatar dismissed the political oppositions hope for discussions based on a federation, calling it a false hope.
Regarding the Cyprus issue, he expressed, “I have no expectations for the Cyprus problem. A United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) envoy has been appointed. This person has no affiliation with the Security Council. Weve given her a six-month period. Whether there is common ground to initiate negotiations or not, it is her task to find an answer to this question. For negotiations to begin, we must have sovereignty and equality. Without accepting that, there will be no common ground.”
He claimed that more ground was gained on the two-state solution, adding however that he “has no answer as whether there will recognition [OF THE TRNC]”.
“The foundation has been reinforced, but I cannot answer when there will be recognition. I can say this: there is no alternative.”
Regarding the Cyprus issue, Tatar acknowledged that the two-state policy proposed by the breakaway regime, with Turkeys support, faces challenges as the EU and its allies oppose it.
Recently, Tatar was summoned to Istanbul by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, where reports claimed Ankara has told him to keep quiet about the Cyprus issue, as it will be a matter for Greece and Turkey to hash out.
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