Turkish Cypriot President Tatar calls for ‘new model’ in Cyprus

Turkish Cypriot President Tatar emphasizes the need to recognize political realities and proposes a ‘two-state solution’ as a way forward

The President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ersin Tatar, has emphasized the need for a “new approach” and a “new model” to resolve the Cyprus problem based on the island’s political realities.

During a recent visit to Germany, Tatar stressed the importance of finding a solution that benefits all parties and contributes to the security and stability of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Tatar welcomed German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s interest in helping to solve the decades-old Cyprus problem but underlined that Berlin must first take steps to end what he called “unfair isolations.”

Highlighting the challenges faced by Turkish Cypriots, Tatar criticized the European Union’s (EU) treatment of the community, citing restrictions on sports, trade and travel.

He emphasized that a new process for a political settlement could begin if the international community recognizes the political realities on the island and acknowledges the sovereign equality of Turkish Cypriots.

Tatar proposed a “two-state solution” as the way forward, stating that this model has gained increased support from countries in recent years.

The President also warned against the rise of the far-right in the Greek Cypriot administration, citing the growing support for the ultranationalist National Popular Front (ELAM).

The island of Cyprus has been divided since the early 1960s, with Turkish Cypriots retreating into enclaves for safety after ethnic attacks.

Türkiye intervened militarily in 1974 to protect Turkish Cypriots from persecution, leading to the founding of the TRNC in 1983.

In 2004, the Greek Cypriot administration joined the EU, and in the same year, they rejected a U.N. plan to resolve the dispute.

The Cyprus problem remains longstanding despite diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive settlement.

Source: AA

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