Tatar: We Did Not Accept the Greek Cypriot Proposal for Transit Passage

Following his meeting with the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Cyprus, Colin Stewart, President Tatar made separate statements to the press.

"I once again emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation on issues that will benefit both sides," said President Tatar. He thanked Stewart for his warm attention during the year-end reception held in the buffer zone and noted that the Turkish Cypriot side has always been open to communication.

Tatar stressed that various efforts are being made by technical committees to ensure cooperation on equal terms between the two sides. “Although a final solution to the Cyprus issue does not seem imminent, I once again expressed the importance of fostering cooperation in areas that would benefit both sides,” he added.

He pointed out that the idea of opening a crossing point on October 15 during an informal dinner with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Greek Cypriot Leader Nikos Christodoulides had been discussed. From the outset, the Turkish Cypriot side has proposed the opening of a crossing point in Haspolat, Tatar said.

Tatar highlighted the importance of opening a crossing point for commercial vehicles and taxis in Haspolat, which would increase trade between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the Republic of Cyprus and ease traffic at the Metehan crossing.

“There are nine crossing points between the TRNC and the Republic of Cyprus. Seventy-five percent of the traffic goes through Metehan. Therefore, opening the Haspolat crossing is very logical. I believe the Greek Cypriot side should not oppose this,” Tatar said.

Regarding the issue of transit passage, Tatar stated that the Greek Cypriot side may want something in return, but emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot side would not accept transit passages—passages that would allow Greek Cypriots to move between different regions of the Republic of Cyprus.

"We cannot approve transit passages because they do not qualify as a crossing point," Tatar remarked, adding that they are now waiting for an alternative proposal from the Greek Cypriot side, which may come around the New Year.

Tatar also raised concerns regarding the Pile-Yiğitler road. He reminded Stewart of the problems encountered during the construction of this road, noting that the Turkish Cypriot side is disturbed by the situation. He emphasized that the completion of the Pile-Yiğitler road is crucial to resolving the passage difficulties faced by the people of Pile.

On the issue of an expanded meeting with the leaders and guarantor countries, President Tatar noted that UN Assistant Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo is expected to visit the island in January to prepare for the meeting. He added that the meeting is anticipated to take place in February or March.

Tatar reiterated that the positions of the TRNC and Turkey are that the negotiation process can only begin after confirming the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriots. He emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot side has never been opposed to informal discussions regarding cooperation that would benefit both peoples.

Referring to the developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, Tatar noted that these events have further increased the importance of the TRNC. He also pointed out that there have been frequent statements from Turkey, the guarantor country and the largest power in the region, affirming their unwavering support for the policies of President Tatar.

Tatar concluded by referring to Colin Stewart’s upcoming report to the UN Security Council at the end of January 2025, where he hopes that the UN’s reports, including references to a lack of common ground in Cyprus, will be officially recorded. He emphasized that these historical reports are crucial for the future.