Harmancı: "Meeting Showed Positive Signs Despite No Concrete Gains"

Speaking to Kıbrıs Postası TV on the program "Canan Onurer ile Sabah Haberleri," Harmancı stated, "The meeting yielded no concrete gains, but the fact that they will meet again is a positive development."

Harmancı highlighted the long-standing importance of crossing points, saying, "In 2019, I had emphasized the need for additional crossing points in Nicosia, as the city should not be constrained by a single crossing."

According to 2023 data, Harmancı noted approximately 1.9 million non-TRNC citizens entered Northern Cyprus through Ercan Airport, while 5.2 million non-TRNC citizens crossed from the South to the North.

He also emphasized that 67-68% of the crossings between North and South in 2023 occurred through the Metehan crossing point, leading to significant congestion and what he described as a "humanitarian drama."

Referring to Tatar's statement that 8 million crossings took place in 2024, Harmancı said, "I am not sure if this figure includes only TRNC citizens or all crossings, but it is an astonishing and even alarming number."

Harmancı expressed support for policies aimed at easing the situation at crossing points, advocating for the opening of more crossing points to foster interaction between the two communities.

Regarding the Akıncılar-Limya crossing point proposal, Harmancı stressed its significance for residents in Akıncılar and nearby areas, especially in light of Greek Cypriot insistence on the Kiracıköy crossing point.

Limited Prospects for Resolution at Informal Talks

Harmancı also commented on the upcoming informal 5+1 talks scheduled for March 17-19 in Switzerland, stating that the chances of reaching a definitive solution are very slim.

Describing the current global climate as the "Elon Musk era," Harmancı underlined the need for serious preparedness in the face of rapid changes. He highlighted regional NATO-related debates and developments in Syria as examples of how swiftly dynamics can shift.

He concluded, "We must take steps to achieve peace and resolution promptly. Progressives and proponents of peace have a critical role to play in paving the way for a lasting solution."