Hasipoğlu: UN Acknowledges Federation is No Longer a Common Ground

Appearing on Gökhan Altıner’s program Sabah Postası on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Hasipoğlu made significant remarks on the Cyprus problem and regional developments. He highlighted the importance of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s first official visit to the TRNC, supporting Fidan’s observations regarding unjust isolation imposed on the Turkish Cypriot community and his call to address the realities on the island.

“Two Sovereign Peoples and States Exist on the Island”
Hasipoğlu asserted that “two sovereign peoples and states” exist on the island, a position embraced by UBP and unequivocally supported by Hakan Fidan and Turkey. He noted that measures such as the opening of crossing points and cooperation on energy projects should be based on collaboration, as partnerships cannot be established without mutual cooperation.

“Will CTP Change Its Position When UN Parameters Change?”
Criticizing Republican Turkish Party (CTP) leader Tufan Erhürman’s remarks on federation being "a solution model based on knowledge," Hasipoğlu described them as contradictory and confusing. He questioned whether CTP’s position would change if UN parameters were updated, stating: “Is CTP’s ideology dependent on UN Security Council resolutions?”

He urged for a unified stance on the Cyprus issue, declaring that advocating for federation is obsolete. “Federation is no longer a viable solution,” he said, adding that UN parameters must adapt to current realities.

“UN No Longer Sees Federation as Common Ground”
Hasipoğlu pointed out that the UN has recognized federation as no longer a common ground, citing Secretary-General António Guterres’ latest report, which omitted references to federation. He called for a unified stance, drawing parallels to Kosovo’s example, to advocate for changes to UN parameters.

“Collaboration Must Precede Formal Negotiations”
On upcoming informal summits expected in January and March, Hasipoğlu noted they were initiated by President Ersin Tatar. He expressed optimism for positive outcomes and shared plans to propose committees on energy and maritime jurisdiction. However, he criticized the Greek Cypriot side for rejecting bi-communal committee proposals thus far.

He reiterated that comprehensive negotiations require prior collaboration between the two states, stressing that solutions cannot be reached without such cooperation. Hasipoğlu also highlighted challenges, such as the Greek Cypriot administration making unilateral decisions on the island’s future and natural resources, complicating resolution efforts.

Impact of Turkey-Greece Relations on Negotiations
Hasipoğlu concluded by stating that strengthened relations between Turkey and Greece could positively influence negotiations. However, he warned that the Greek Cypriot mindset remains unchanged, citing past failures such as the Crans-Montana talks, where the Greek Cypriot side withdrew from the table despite favorable conditions.