Tatar: “Turkey Has Supported Our Policy; TRNC Will Eventually Be Recognized”

Tatar opened the discussion by highlighting that the government program of the National Unity Party (UBP) and People’s Party (HP) was the first to propose a two-state solution under the European Union framework. He emphasized that this policy was further developed in his presidential campaign manifesto.

“CLAIMS THAT ‘NO PROGRESS WAS MADE IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS’ ARE COMPLETELY FALSE”

Tatar stressed that after his election, Turkey began supporting this policy. He pointed out that Turkey, as one of the guarantor powers of Cyprus, has called for the recognition of the TRNC at United Nations summits for four consecutive years since 2021. In July, the Turkish Grand National Assembly unanimously adopted the two-state solution vision as part of Turkey’s official policy. Tatar also cited strengthened relations within the Turkic Council (TDT) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as concrete evidence that the claim of “no progress in the past five years” is inaccurate.

He noted Turkey’s critical role in the region and argued that the two-state policy benefits Turkey, making it unlikely that Ankara would abandon it.

“TDT DECISIONS ARE TECHNICAL; OUR CONNECTION IS BASED ON HEARTFELT TIES”

Regarding TDT summits and declarations, Tatar described these as technical matters. He highlighted that the TRNC’s presence under its own name and flag reflects a genuine, heartfelt bond, demonstrating satisfaction with its participation.

Tatar argued that the two-state policy has gained a legitimate footing through historical developments and that the time is now ripe for decisive action.

“THE GREEK CYPRIOT SIDE DEMANDS ‘0 TROOPS, 0 GUARANTORS’ AND REFUSES COMPROMISE”

Tatar criticized the Greek Cypriot side’s insistence on zero troops and no guarantors, noting that this uncompromising stance makes a federal solution unattainable. He stressed that Turkish Cypriots have the right to self-determination based on history and culture and must continue with the TRNC.

Highlighting the inequality created by the Greek Cypriot entry into the EU, Tatar recalled that Turkey’s Prime Minister at the time accepted this under national interest considerations, while Rauf Raif Denktaş opposed it. He emphasized that acceptance of what Turkish Cypriots reject only emboldens the Greek side and hinders a comprehensive solution.

Tatar reiterated that Turkish Cypriots will not enter official negotiations without recognition of their sovereignty, noting that while Greek Cypriots benefit from EU membership, Turkish Cypriots rely on support from Turkey.

“TRNC WILL BE RECOGNIZED, IF NOT IN 3-5 YEARS, THEN IN THE FUTURE”

Responding to how he would promote the TRNC internationally, Tatar said that even if recognition does not occur within three to five years, it will eventually happen as Turkey gains further influence. He emphasized that direct flights, direct contacts, and direct trade (the 3D approach) are preconditions for formal negotiations.

He also clarified that any lack of progress in negotiations is the responsibility of the Greek Cypriot side, which has refused to cooperate.

“THE FEDERATION IS CLOSED, TRNC BORDERS WERE SET IN 1974; WE WILL NOT CONCEDE LAND”

On territorial matters, Tatar stated that the central regions of northern Cyprus, including the Kyrenia Mountains, are counted within TRNC territory. He confirmed that the federation option is no longer on the table and that no concessions on land will be made.

“WE ASKED THE GREEK SIDE ABOUT MIXED MARRIAGES; THEY REMAIN SILENT”

Tatar also addressed property cases, asserting that European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) rulings will favor Turkish Cypriots. He stressed that both the TRNC and Turkey actively pursue cases through the Immovable Property Commission (IPC) and courts, ensuring positive outcomes. Regarding mixed marriages, he noted that the Greek side has remained silent despite repeated inquiries.

“WHY SHOULD ERHÜRMAN RECEIVE RIGHTS NOT GIVEN TO PREVIOUS LEADERS?”

Tatar questioned promises made to Greek Cypriots, asking whether CTP leader and presidential candidate Erhürman has special relations with them that justify granting him rights not previously extended to other leaders.

“WITH TURKEY FIRMLY SUPPORTING THE TWO-STATE POLICY, WHAT WILL ERHÜRMAN NEGOTIATE?”

Tatar said he could not understand what Erhürman would negotiate given Turkey’s clear stance. He recalled that even Denktaş refrained from participating in elections after the Annan Plan due to discord with Turkey, stressing that alignment with Turkey remains essential.

“BEFORE PARTIES HIT THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL, ERHÜRMAN LED BY 3-5%; NOW WE ARE AHEAD”

Finally, Tatar reviewed the election, noting that Erhürman initially held a 3-5% lead before the UBP and coalition parties mobilized. He said he is now ahead and reiterated that he would congratulate Erhürman if he wins, while questioning whether Erhürman would reciprocate.