Tatham: The UK Takes Its Role as a Guarantor Power Very Seriously
New British High Commissioner Michael Tatham expressed confidence that the United Kingdom will participate at a high level in the upcoming Cyprus issue conference. He described the concept of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation as a "broad framework that creates space for discussing, negotiating, and reaching consensus on the concerns and demands of both sides."
In an interview with Kathimerini, Tatham highlighted that the UK's role as a guarantor power is taken very seriously, and the country is committed to contributing constructively to the process. He added that the upcoming informal expanded meeting on the Cyprus issue will likely be held within a five-party framework, including the guarantor powers. Tatham stated that while the exact details will depend on the UN’s call for the meeting, he believes that the UK will participate at the highest level.
When asked about his views on the Turkish Cypriots' expectations for encouragement from the Greek Cypriot side to join the dialogue, Tatham emphasized that discussing such matters is the prerogative of the Turkish Cypriots. He reiterated that the UK fully supports a solution within the framework of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, which he believes is the most promising framework for progress.
Tatham also addressed the notion of the Cyprus problem being the "last chance" for a resolution, stating that while others may use such terms, he does not find the phrase "last opportunity" useful in diplomatic discussions. However, he acknowledged that time is not working in favor of a solution and stressed the importance of a sense of urgency to make progress.
Tatham emphasized that the UK is ready to support the solution efforts through every diplomatic means available. He also expressed that UK-Cyprus bilateral relations are developing positively, citing the recent visit of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to Cyprus, where discussions with President Nikos Christodoulides focused on regional issues, including the situation in Russia and Ukraine.
On the potential for Cyprus's NATO membership, Tatham acknowledged President Christodoulides' comments, indicating that Cyprus’s defense relations with the West, including the US, are important. While NATO membership is not a necessity, Tatham noted that strengthening defense cooperation is a key priority for the UK, and the country is ready to contribute within the framework of the 2019 defense cooperation memorandum.
Tatham concluded by underscoring that the UK supports enhanced cooperation between Cyprus and the US and does not view it as a competitive concern.
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