UN’s lack of agreement with TRNC is unacceptable – BRTK
President Ersin Tatar has expressed his dissatisfaction with the United Nations’ lack of agreement with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), despite having agreements with the other side in Cyprus. Tatar stated that this discrepancy is unacceptable and called for a “personal representative” who is impartial, has limited powers, and will be assigned for a specific period of time.
Tatar’s remarks came after a meeting with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the Deputy Secretary-General of the UN for Peace Operations. During the meeting, Tatar emphasized the existence of two states in Cyprus and requested that the UN sign a memorandum of understanding with the TRNC. He stated that their demands were met with a positive response, with the possibility of suggestions for a written agreement.
President Tatar highlighted the need for the international community to take the two-state solution proposal seriously. He noted that the Cyprus problem has been ongoing for 60 years and stated that accepting the principles of sovereign equality and equal international status is crucial for official negotiations to begin.
The issue of Pyla was also discussed during the meeting. Tatar expressed his discomfort with the Greek Cypriots’ intention to start construction activities in areas where the Turkish Cypriot people have been cultivating for over 40 years. He called for UN intervention in this matter and emphasized that any developments in the region should have the approval of both parties.
Additionally, Tatar discussed the development of technical committees and proposed cooperation initiatives, such as researching natural resources, connecting the two parties in the electricity system, renewable energy projects, irregular migration, and mines. He mentioned that the Greek Cypriot side has been hesitant to meet with TRNC officials on these issues due to concerns about recognition. Tatar suggested that the UN could provide encouraging suggestions to both sides regarding the border gates.
Regarding the UN envoy, Tatar reiterated his request for a “personal representative” who is impartial and has limited powers. He rejected the idea of a representative directly affiliated with the Security Council and tasked with determining the basis for negotiation for a federal agreement. Tatar stated that they have not yet received a name for such a representative but would approve someone who can be completely impartial.
President Tatar’s meeting with Lacroix addressed various important issues in Cyprus and expressed the TRNC’s stance on finding a fair and sustainable solution based on sovereign equality and equal international status. The discussions also touched upon the need for UN intervention regarding the issue of Pyla and the potential for cooperation in various areas between the TRNC and the Greek Cypriot side.
