Tatar: “We Will Continue Our Efforts as a Diplomatic Mobilisation”

Speaking to the press following a nearly hour-long meeting with the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Cyprus and UNFICYP Chief Colin Stewart, Tatar said they discussed a wide range of issues.

“We Have Never Abandoned Dialogue, Engagement, and Constructive Stance”

Tatar recalled that a 5+1 informal meeting had been held in Geneva on 16–17 March and that a follow-up meeting is scheduled for July in New York. He noted ongoing tensions with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides, particularly regarding recent detentions.

He said that while the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín, had been reappointed to push forward six key negotiation points, little progress had been made so far. Tatar stated that he had written a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, expressing his disappointment, but reaffirmed his continued commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement.

“Progress Within the 3D Framework Could Lead to Formal Talks”

Referring to the “3D” approach—direct trade, direct flights, and direct contact—Tatar said that if progress is made within this framework, formal negotiations could resume. He pointed out that dialogue with the Greek Cypriot side continues through 12 technical committees.

Responding to criticism about what had been achieved in the past four and a half years, Tatar said: “Much has been done. A new vision was presented, the case for a two-state solution was made at the international level, and the importance of the Turkish Cypriot people’s sovereignty was asserted. We have gained a degree of respect.”

He also referred to UN reports that stated no common ground existed between the sides—calling this a diplomatic gain. Stressing that embargoes and injustices against the Turkish Cypriot side continue, Tatar said these issues were shared with the international community.

“We Confirmed Our Readiness for the 5+1 Meeting in New York on 16–17 July”

Tatar stressed the importance of the Turkish Cypriot side maintaining its stance as a separate people, state, and authority for a dignified and strong future. “We confirmed our readiness for the extended 5+1 meeting in New York on 16–17 July. Of course, we consulted with Turkey. I also spoke with Ms Holguín while I was in London,” he said.

“Participation in These Meetings Is a Matter of Status for Us”

Sharing details about his recent contacts in the UK, Tatar said: “I met with UK Minister for Europe, Stewart Doughty, who will represent the UK in the 5+1 meeting. I conveyed to him everything I’ve just shared with you.”

He noted Holguín’s ongoing diplomatic tour, which includes stops in Cyprus, Ankara, Athens, Brussels, and London, and added: “We are maintaining constant international dialogue.”

Tatar announced he would travel to Azerbaijan this evening, where he will hold meetings tomorrow:
“As an observer member of the Economic Cooperation Organization, we will be present in Hankendi as the TRNC. Our participation in such meetings is a matter of status for us. I once again thank the Azerbaijani government and President Ilham Aliyev for inviting me.”

“TRNC Must Expand Its Cooperation with States to Sustain Its Presence in the Eastern Mediterranean”

Emphasising the need to boost the TRNC’s presence and economic potential in the Eastern Mediterranean, Tatar said cooperation with other countries in sectors such as trade, tourism, higher education, and services must be expanded.

He concluded by saying he would raise the issues of embargoes, restrictions, and isolation during his visit to Hankendi and affirmed:
“We will continue to strengthen our diplomatic contacts and efforts as part of a broader diplomatic mobilisation.”