Tatar Calls For UN Overhaul

Tatar - Guterres
[President Ersin Tatar – UNSG Antonio Guterres – file photo]
In recognition of UN Day, President Ersin Tatar spoke to Kibris Postasi to underscore Cyprus’s essential position in the Eastern Mediterranean and commended UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for his ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Tatar described Cyprus as a focal point amid diverse international interests, stating it holds one of the most crucial strategic positions worldwide. He praised Guterres’ dedication to the Cyprus issue, noting that informal talks in New York bolstered his confidence in Guterres’ impartial commitment.

“The UN Needs Structural Reform”

Echoing sentiments shared by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Tatar argued for a significant restructuring of the United Nations, focusing on reducing the power imbalance within the Security Council, where five permanent members hold decisive influence. He noted the Council’s apparent inability to address crises effectively, such as recent hostilities in Gaza, which has led to mounting global criticism of the UN’s responsiveness.

A Complex Relationship with the Security Council

Tatar drew attention to the UN’s internal structure and processes, distinguishing between the Security Council’s authority and the Secretariat’s operational role. He expressed respect for Guterres’ independence, acknowledging that his statements sometimes deviate from the positions held by the Security Council, suggesting a balanced approach to global issues.

Recalling Past Injustices Amidst Current Conflicts

Commenting on Guterres being deemed “unwelcome” by Israel, Tatar commended his resolve, condemning recent actions by Israel as unacceptable. He compared this to the Turkish Cypriot experience in the 1960s, noting the UN’s similar inaction at that time when Turkish Cypriot communities faced widespread displacement and destruction.

Cyprus as a Global Crossroads

Discussing Cyprus’s growing strategic significance, Tatar emphasised its status as a critical point for global trade, with around 70% passing through the Eastern Mediterranean. Referring to the “Blue Homeland” framework, he highlighted the region’s role in energy security.

With Turkey only 60 kilometres from Cyprus, Tatar affirmed Turkey’s strong presence on the island as vital. He stressed that neither Turkey nor the Turkish Cypriots should be marginalised by external forces, as both have established rights in the region that warrant acknowledgment.

Kibris Postasi

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