Debate Over NATO Membership Intensifies in South Cyprus

Different political parties, including DİKO and AKEL, are contributing to the discussion with varied perspectives. The topic remains a key focus in the Greek Cypriot press, with Haravgi newspaper covering the ongoing discourse.

Diplomatic sources cited by the newspaper suggest that for South Cyprus to join NATO or affiliated organizations, Turkey's approval is necessary, as it is a NATO member. These sources warn that such a membership could provide Turkey an opportunity to avoid the achievements gained during the Crans Montana negotiations, such as the withdrawal of Turkish troops and the abolition of Turkey’s guarantor role.

Additionally, they pointed out that such moves could potentially offer Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot side a chance to argue that the Cyprus issue is being militarized.

The discussion also highlights that NATO membership is not currently a priority for the United States or other NATO elements.

In another report, Haravgi highlighted an interview with DİKO Member of Parliament Hrisis Pantelidis, who addressed the issue of NATO membership. Pantelidis emphasized that as an EU member, South Cyprus should support the country’s western orientation. He also noted that aligning with NATO’s criteria and strengthening cooperation with the United States would serve Cyprus' national interests.

However, Pantelidis stated that as long as the Cyprus problem remains unresolved, the question of NATO membership would not be on the table, nor should it be raised. He emphasized that a decision on NATO membership would be made by the people of Cyprus once the Cyprus issue is resolved.

On the other hand, AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanu criticized the recent comments made by President Nikos Christodoulides, who suggested discussing NATO membership. In an interview with Fileleftheros, Stefanu called such statements dangerous. He also raised questions about whether Christodoulides and the Democratic Rally (DISI) party were attempting to link the Cyprus issue with NATO membership, recalling a remark by former President Tassos Papadopoulos that within NATO, Cyprus would have soldiers, while Turkey would have officers.

Stefanu responded to the question of whether South Cyprus was opposed to its western orientation, asking in return, "Is NATO membership part of that western orientation?"