Tatar: Greek Cypriots Reject Equality, Blocking Any Prospects for a Settlement

Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Tatar stated: “They don't want to sit at the table with us as equals because they think it would elevate our status. They believe they are the sole owners of the island, and they see us as a minority.” He argued that decades of failed negotiations have demonstrated the Greek Cypriot side's unwillingness to share power or resources.

Tatar stressed that the Turkish Cypriot side has shifted its position since Crans-Montana in 2017, after what he described as yet another failed attempt to reach a federal deal. “We no longer waste time on a federation. We are pursuing a realistic policy that reflects the facts on the ground.”

He reiterated that his administration, with Turkey’s full support, is advocating for a two-state model: “The only way forward is to recognise the existence of two separate peoples, two separate states. Only then can there be real peace on the island.”

No Recognition Precondition, But Isolation Must End

Tatar rejected claims that he had demanded international recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) as a precondition for resuming official negotiations. “I never said that talks could only begin if the TRNC is recognised. What I said was that the isolation must end.”

He pointed to the so-called “Three Ds”—direct trade, direct flights, and direct contact—as essential measures for ending what he described as the unfair isolation imposed on Turkish Cypriots since 1963. “Our people are being punished for a crime they didn’t commit. This must end.”

Maraş and Ercan Not Up for Bargaining

Addressing rumours of a potential trade-off involving the fenced-off town of Varosha (Maraş) in exchange for international flights to Ercan Airport, Tatar said no such offer has ever been formally made—and if it were, he would reject it. “Maraş is TRNC territory. If we give it away, there's no going back. But Ercan could be shut down the next day by a Greek veto.”

“Christodoulides Is Making Things Up”

Tatar also responded to a claim by Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan does not allow questions from Turkish Cypriot officials. “That is completely made up. I always speak freely and raise our concerns directly.”

Tatar concluded that any real progress in Cyprus would require a fundamental change in the Greek Cypriot approach. “They need to accept the reality that there are two equal peoples on this island. Without that, there can be no solution.”