Property Issue: A Key Aspect of the Cyprus Problem
Talat stated that the TRNC’s expectations of joining the Organisation of Turkic States have led to overconfidence. He emphasised that the property issue, a critical aspect of the Cyprus problem, has resurfaced in a different context.
Avalanche of Consequences
Talat pointed out that recent developments were foreshadowed by discussions and actions on the Greek Cypriot side. He mentioned the arrest and detention of the Afik Group director in the south, hinting at potential far-reaching consequences.
Struggles for Recognition
Talat stressed that through significant struggles, Turkish Cypriots have transformed from being seen as a community unwilling to seek solutions to one that has gained international recognition, as confirmed by the referendum. He asserted that no country now excludes Turkish Cypriots and that Turkey is no longer blamed for the lack of a solution.
How Did We Get Here?
He noted that the Immovable Property Law has been recognised by the ECHR as an adequate legal remedy, making it part of international law. However, due to past mistakes, South Cyprus joined the EU alone. Despite this, Turkish Cypriots were not entirely excluded from EU interests. Talat questioned how the Turkish Cypriot leadership, once able to engage with global leaders, has reached its current isolated state.
Isolation and Internal Focus
Talat recalled that after the failed negotiations in Crans-Montana in 2017, Turkey suggested exploring solutions beyond the federation, leading to a breakdown in dialogue between Turkish Cypriots and Turkey. During the presidential election, Turkey supported a candidate opposed to a solution, resulting in Mr. Tatar’s election amid unprecedented intervention. This marked the beginning of a dark period for Turkish Cypriots, compounded by the election of another anti-solution president in the south, for which no blame was placed due to Turkey and Tatar’s stance.
Cut off from the World
Today, Turkish Cypriots find themselves isolated, having conceded the Republic of Cyprus to the Greek side. This isolation is made worse by consolation from the Organisation of Turkic States. Talat noted that the world, ignoring Turkish Cypriots, is establishing close and even military relations with the Greek side, despite the presence of an illegal army according to the Cyprus Republic Constitution.
Concerns Over IPC Law
Talat warned that the current complacency regarding the Immovable Property Commission (IPC) law as a sure thing could lead to undesirable outcomes. He emphasised that the ECHR’s approval of the IPC law was a political decision in response to the Greek Cypriot side’s rejection of a solution and desire to reclaim property.
Return to Reason
Talat stressed that the UN Security Council’s decisions are binding in the eyes of the world. He recalled the hardships experienced before the Annan Plan due to actions against economically and politically weaker nations. Talat concluded that Turkish Cypriots must return to the path of reason, negotiating and defending their rights to prove they are committed to a solution and to escape the imposed isolation. There is no other way forward, he said.
