Akansoy: Cyprus Problem Cannot Be Solved by Turkish Cypriots Alone

Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV’s Sabah Postası programme, Akansoy said methods have been developed to make progress, adding, “The Cyprus problem cannot be solved only by the wish of the Turkish Cypriots, nor only by the wish of the Greek Cypriots,” and highlighted the role of the guarantor states, the EU and the UN Security Council.

He said that in order to be effective, the Turkish side – made up of Turkey and the TRNC – must understand each other well, establish a common language, and use Turkey’s diplomatic capacity to advance their arguments.

Commenting on the presidential election process, Akansoy said the campaign is proceeding smoothly with good participation. He stressed the importance of both CTP leader and presidential candidate Tufan Erhürman and incumbent President Ersin Tatar appearing on programmes together, saying this would highlight the difference between their visions.

He argued that CTP’s vision foresees a more proactive presidency that sets the agenda and seeks solutions to the people’s problems. Referring to former president Mehmet Ali Talat’s term as “a serious experience,” Akansoy said they intend to benefit from it.

He also underlined that Turkey’s two-state argument and opposition to federation stem from its national interests, and that this would be discussed with Ankara if Erhürman wins. Akansoy added that they do not claim “we will start negotiations the next day if we win,” but said they would work in close coordination with Turkey and push forward for EU membership and a resolution of the Cyprus problem.