Tatar: “Federation Is Now a Clear Greek Cypriot Position”

Referring to his meeting with Colin Stewart, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Cyprus and head of the UN Peacekeeping Mission, Tatar conveyed his expectations for the upcoming UN Security Council briefing in January. He emphasized that the federation model has become obsolete, stating, “Federation is no longer a viable negotiation basis; it has turned into a clear Greek Cypriot position.”

Tatar underscored the importance of reflecting this reality in UN reports and resolutions. “The federation model has been exhausted through repeated failures over 56 years. Persisting with a model proven unworkable means preserving the status quo, which perpetuates the inhumane isolation imposed on the Turkish Cypriot people,” he said.

Call for Access to Fundamental Human Rights
President Tatar reiterated the Turkish Cypriot side’s demands for direct trade, direct flights, and international engagement. “The international community must end its politically motivated obstruction of Turkish Cypriots’ access to fundamental human rights. A just and lasting solution requires addressing the existing inequality between the sides,” he stated.

Tatar also pointed out that the sincerity of the international community’s commitment to ending the status quo would be tested by its approach to the isolation faced by Turkish Cypriots.

Progress on New Crossing Points
Discussing crossing points, Tatar highlighted the need for a new crossing point in Nicosia to ease congestion at Metehan. He proposed the opening of the Haspolat crossing, primarily for commercial traffic, while rejecting a Greek Cypriot proposal for a transit route serving only Greek Cypriots.

Tatar expressed optimism about ongoing discussions, noting the possibility of progress in a potential meeting with the Greek Cypriot leader before the planned 4+1+1 informal talks.

Reality-Based Negotiation Models
Reflecting on the upcoming 4+1+1 format discussions involving both sides of the island, Turkey, Greece, the UK, and the UN Secretary-General, Tatar emphasized the need for a reality-based approach. “No model can succeed if it does not reflect the realities on the ground. After 56 years, we know what does not work. Clinging to a failed model only serves to maintain the status quo,” he concluded.