Erdoğan’s Firm Stance
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has rejected a UN-backed proposal for Cyprus reunification, reaffirming his support for a two-state solution. Speaking at an event in northern Cyprus on the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s invasion, Erdoğan dismissed the Annan Plan, which suggested a federated Cyprus. This plan was approved by 65% of Turkish Cypriots in a 2004 referendum but was overwhelmingly rejected by Greek Cypriots.
Continued Rejection of Federation
Erdoğan’s rejection of the federation plan, which has been a longstanding position, disappoints hopes that he might soften his stance. “You cannot bathe in the same water twice. A federal solution is not possible in Cyprus,” Erdoğan stated. His firm position complicates efforts by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to resume negotiations between the two sides.
Turkish Cypriot Leadership Support
Ersin Tatar, president of the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, echoed Erdoğan’s sentiments. He criticized the Greek Cypriot leadership for insisting on a federal solution that, he claims, would undermine Turkish Cypriot sovereignty and eliminate Turkey’s role as a guarantor. Tatar emphasized that such a solution would never be acceptable to the Turkish Cypriots.
Greek Cypriot Response
On the other side of the island, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides expressed optimism about UN efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue but criticized Turkey for human rights violations against Cypriots. He called on Turkey to pursue stability and closer relations with the EU, suggesting that Ankara knows the path to achieving these goals.
Divided Commemoration
The anniversary of Turkey’s 1974 invasion is marked differently on each side of the island. In the Turkish-controlled north, it is celebrated as a day of salvation, while in the south, it is a somber occasion marked by air raid sirens, remembering the invasion as a catastrophe. Cyprus remains divided, with Turkey maintaining about 35,000 troops in the north, which declared itself the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1983, recognized only by Turkey. Despite the division, the entire island is considered EU territory, with Turkish Cypriots recognized as EU citizens.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Irish Examiner
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