The focus on the Cyprus issue intensified as United Nations envoy for the Cyprus problem, Maria Angela Holguin, met Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara on Friday. This meeting marked a significant step in Holguin’s diplomatic efforts ahead of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ scheduled visit to Cyprus next week.
Fidan’s Emphasis on Two-State Solution
While no official statements were made following the meeting, Turkish news sources reported that Fidan reiterated Turkey’s position on the Cyprus issue. He asserted that Turkey, acting as a guarantor power, believes the most realistic resolution lies in the coexistence of two states. Fidan’s comments suggest a firm stance on Turkish Cypriots’ rights and their equal status in any future negotiations.
Reactions from the European Commission
Holguin’s diplomatic engagements earlier in the week included discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the commission’s envoy for the Cyprus problem, Raffaele Fitto, in Brussels. After their meeting, von der Leyen expressed her support for Holguin’s active role in addressing the Cyprus issue within the UN framework and aligned with European Union values.
- Ursula von der Leyen: “I welcome her active engagement, alongside Guterres, to resolve the Cyprus issue.”
- Raffaele Fitto: Described his meeting with Holguin as an important opportunity for establishing a constructive working relationship.
Fitto highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting the UN-led process, underscoring the importance of collaboration in resolving this long-standing conflict.
Turkey’s Hardening Position on Cyprus
Reports suggest that Fidan’s statements reflect a potential shift in Turkey’s approach towards the Cyprus problem, coming shortly after Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz made similar remarks during his visit to Cyprus. Yilmaz stated that achieving a permanent and sustainable solution requires acceptance of the sovereign equality of both states, pointing out the ongoing challenges due to the Greek Cypriot side’s reluctance to view Turkish Cypriots as equal partners.
Perspectives from Turkish Cypriot Leadership
Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman remains steadfast in his views, suggesting that the Turkish Cypriots have long been committed to solving the Cyprus problem. He referenced their support for the 2004 Annan plan and their engagement in the previous round of negotiations held in Crans-Montana in 2017 as signs of their willingness to achieve a resolution.
Erhurman also echoed Guterres’ sentiment that this time negotiations must lead to tangible outcomes rather than being mere formalities. He emphasised the need for result-oriented discussions, highlighting the frustration over past inconclusive negotiations.
Upcoming Meetings and International Engagements
Guterres is set to arrive in Cyprus on Monday, with plans for individual meetings with both Cypriot leaders, Christodoulides and Erhurman, scheduled for Tuesday morning. Following these discussions, Guterres will visit the Committee on Missing Persons, a topic of significant concern for both communities on the island. A tripartite meeting involving Guterres and both leaders is planned for Wednesday at the UN’s good offices mission.
Prior to this week, Turkey had shown a more positive disposition towards dialogue, as evidenced by a joint declaration signed by Fidan and EU officials last month, which expressed support for Guterres’ efforts in Cyprus. This recent history of cooperation suggests that the upcoming meetings may carry an air of renewed hope for progress.
Calls for Action from European Leaders
In discussions earlier this month, European leaders, including von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, urged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to seize the current momentum to facilitate a resolution to the Cyprus problem. Their calls for action reflect a broader desire within the international community to see tangible progress in negotiations.
Despite the focus on Cyprus during diplomatic engagements, Erdogan’s recent statements following Friday prayers did not address the issue, raising questions about Turkey’s commitment to the ongoing discussions.
Holguin’s Appeal for Negotiation
At the beginning of this month, Holguin called upon Cypriots to “seize this historic opportunity to negotiate a lasting solution.” She indicated that Guterres is evaluating potential next steps that could encourage both parties to make concrete moves towards a final resolution.
The upcoming week holds significant potential for the future of Cyprus, with Guterres’ visit set to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue. The interplay between Turkish and Greek Cypriot leaders, as well as the involvement of international stakeholders, will be crucial in shaping the next phases of negotiation.
