Mehmet Harmancı: "There Is an Opportunity to Chart the Roadmap the Turkish Cypriot Community Deserves"

Speaking via telephone on the program Gündem, broadcast on Kıbrıs Postası TV and hosted by Ulaş Barış, Harmancı highlighted that international politics in Cyprus is at a critical juncture and that this conference carries historical significance in line with Europe's needs.

He noted that the Geneva talks could mark the beginning of a new process, emphasizing that while a definitive solution is not anticipated, the creation of a clear roadmap is possible. Harmancı criticized the Turkish Cypriot side for its lack of proper preparation, stating that even delegations had not been formally invited. "When looking at the broad-based meeting in the south, it is clear that the invitation extended to the Turkish Cypriot side was not adequately structured," he remarked.

Asserting that the TDP would be present to ensure the term "federation" does not fade from discussions, Harmancı underlined their commitment to a solution-oriented approach without deviating from the goal of a federal settlement.

He attributed the convening of the summit in part to statements made by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, pointing out that Turkey’s geopolitical significance is increasingly recognized by all parties involved.

“President Erdoğan sent an important message to Europe: the key to Europe's security is Turkey, and the most crucial secondary key is resolving the Cyprus issue,” Harmancı stated. He argued that Turkey’s role in the process is not to disrupt the existing order but to establish a new framework for negotiations.

Regarding confidence-building measures in Nicosia, Harmancı noted that as mayor, he aims to advocate for initiatives such as the unification of Kanlıdere and electricity-sharing agreements between the two sides.

Describing the conference as a significant opportunity for defining the roadmap that the Turkish Cypriot community deserves, Harmancı expressed his belief that any progress achieved in this process would mark a pivotal moment for the future of the Turkish Cypriot people.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of participation in the conference and reaffirmed his commitment to working towards a just and sustainable solution for the Turkish Cypriot community.