Nami: "Cyprus Issue Can Be Resolved Within Three Months with a New Framework"

Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV’s "Agenda" program, hosted by Ulaş Barış, Nami assessed global developments, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s visit to the island, and the Cyprus issue. He suggested that a solution to the Cyprus problem is possible within 3-4 months if a new approach is adopted.

"Resolving the Cyprus Issue Is Essential for Turkey's Relations with Europe"

Nami evaluated global developments and criticized the current approach, emphasizing that Turkey’s strengthened ties with Europe should positively reflect on the Cyprus issue. He highlighted that solving the Cyprus problem is imperative for Turkey to secure its rightful place in Europe.

"A Country Without International Recognition Cannot Be Party to Agreements"

Referring to Turkey-Syria continental shelf agreements, Nami stated, “A country without a place in international law cannot be party to international agreements.”

"Current Policy Has Proven Ineffective"

Nami criticized the existing policy, asserting it has failed to yield results in resolving the Cyprus issue. He called for adopting a new approach in alignment with UN Security Council decisions and global consensus. Nami highlighted the lack of international recognition for the TRNC and its inability to establish economic, cultural, or sporting connections globally.

He also noted the ineffectiveness of summits hosted by Turkey in creating any positive impact for the Turkish Cypriot community. Criticizing the lifting of the U.S. arms embargo on the Greek Cypriots, Nami argued that defending the success of current policies is unrealistic.

"Federal Ground Remains Unchanged"

Addressing claims of a paradigm shift away from federation, Nami pointed out that since the collapse of the Crans-Montana talks and President Ersin Tatar’s advocacy for a two-state solution, the Turkish Cypriot side has claimed federation is no longer a shared basis. However, he noted that while the UN Secretary-General avoids explicitly mentioning federation in his reports, he references Security Council decisions supporting federation, proving that the federal basis remains intact.

"A New Process Could Yield Results in 3-4 Months"

Nami emphasized that with a revamped negotiation framework, a resolution could be achieved within three to four months. He proposed a timetable for negotiations, suggesting referendums if talks fail: Turkish Cypriots would choose between isolation or federation, while Greek Cypriots would choose between federation or a two-state solution, aiming for a federal agreement.

Nami expressed skepticism about the informal summit planned for March, stressing that unless policies align with global norms and Security Council decisions, the summit would likely be unproductive.

"Rational Diplomacy Key to Resolving Cyprus Issue"

Nami concluded by discussing the implications of Turkey-Greece relations on Cyprus, stating that positive developments could significantly contribute to resolving the issue. He urged Turkey to adopt a rational foreign policy and a solution-oriented approach in Cyprus.