"Cyprus 2054: The Path to a Two-State Solution" Conference Held in London

The event took place at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London. Key attendees included Çimen Keskin, the TRNC Representative in London; Osman Koray Ertaş, Turkey's Ambassador to London; and Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Işıksal, Special Advisor on International Relations and Diplomacy to the TRNC President.

Statements and Discussions

Çimen Keskin emphasized the belief of the Turkish Cypriot side that successful negotiations on the island can only occur between two equal states. She stated, "Therefore, the Turkish Cypriot people demand the recognition of their inherent rights, including sovereign equality and equal international status of our state, before starting any potential new process. We believe that only negotiations between equals have a chance of success."

Keskin further stressed that without such recognition, any new process would be a waste of time and energy. She urged the international community to accept the realities on the ground, which she described as one island, two peoples, and two states.

Osman Koray Ertaş reiterated the fundamental rights of the Turkish Cypriots to sovereign equality and equal international status. He highlighted the legitimate demands of Turkish Cypriots for the restoration of their violated fundamental human rights and the assurance of their security concerns.

Ertaş questioned why Turkish Cypriots should engage in fruitless negotiations based on outdated parameters only to be treated as second-class citizens when Greek Cypriots disrupt the process. He affirmed Turkey's commitment to protecting the rights of Turkish Cypriots as a priority in both foreign and national security policies, and emphasized ongoing efforts to gain international acceptance of the two-state solution.

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Işıksal discussed the historical context of the Turkish Cypriots' plight, noting that their rights were stolen in 1964 and that they seek to live without fear and oppression. He highlighted numerous reports documenting the genocide attempts against Turkish Cypriots.

Işıksal also emphasized the demand for fundamental human rights, including the freedom to trade, freedom of movement, and the right to participate in sports competitions. He stressed that these rights are not political but natural human rights that should be granted to everyone.