Çelepis: We Presented a Proposal for Turkish Troop Withdrawal, Anastasiadis Rejected It

In South Cyprus, discussions about the Crans Montana talks, which began during the tenure of former Greek Cypriot President Nikos Anastasiadis, continued with statements from former negotiator Andreas Mavroyannis and former EU Commissioner Hristos Stylianidis.

According to Politis newspaper, Mavroyannis recently denied claims that Anastasiadis had fled the Crans Montana negotiations, noting that some individuals tried to assign the responsibility for the talks’ failure solely to him. Despite tensions and disagreements, Mavroyannis emphasized his respect and appreciation for Stylianidis.

Mavroyannis clarified that Stylianidis had not raised these claims about responsibility in the College of Commissioners, and he himself did not state that Stylianidis had done so. Stylianidis, meanwhile, rejected allegations suggesting he supported Turkish arguments or contradicted Federica Mogherini, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, during that period. Stylianidis highlighted that official meeting records confirm his presence at the College of Commissioners and underscored that there was no fabrication involved.

Çelepis, who also participated in the Crans Montana talks, stated that the Greek Cypriot side, under Anastasiadis, rejected the UN proposal calling for the termination of guarantees and the phased withdrawal of Turkish troops. He added that Anastasiadis insisted a non-comprehensive solution was unacceptable and initially demanded the withdrawal of all forces, including Turkish and Greek contingents (ELDIK).

Çelepis noted that during a meal, the Greek Cypriot team received an unofficial UN document outlining the mechanisms for implementing a solution, which effectively removed guarantees and intervention rights. Mogherini was present at the meal and fully aware of the developments. Çelepis also emphasized that the European Union was well-informed, as its representative was present during the discussions.