In his address, he highlighted the appointment of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, to explore potential common ground for resuming Cyprus negotiations.
However, Cuellar has flagged the Greek Cypriot side’s steadfast refusal to entertain discussions beyond a federation framework.
President Tatar stressed that any negotiation must commence with a firm commitment to sovereign equality and equal international status, as enshrined in the 1960 founding treaties.
Speaking at the inauguration of the “50th Anniversary of the Peace Operation Symposium” at Lefke European University on Sunday, President Ersin Tatar reiterated the significant role of Turkey as a pivotal and influential force in the region, serving as the guarantor nation for Cyprus and the homeland of Turkish Cypriots.
Tatar highlighted the series of unsuccessful attempts to reach a consensus under a federal structure, citing the Greek Cypriot rejection of the Annan Plan despite their unilateral accession to the European Union.
He emphasised that Turkey’s presence must not be marginalised in the Eastern Mediterranean, emphasising the imperative of bolstering the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) as a national obligation.
Asserting the integral connection between Turkish Cypriots and the broader Turkish nation, he insisted that any agreement must ensure the continuation of Turkey’s guarantor status and military presence.
President Tatar portrayed July 20, 1974, as a transformative moment that ushered in peace, security, and stability to the island, benefiting both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
He argued that the 1974 Turkish Peace Operation not only safeguarded the interests of Turkish Cypriots but also played a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium between Turkey and Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Reiterating the rights of Turkish Cypriots across the airspace, maritime territories, and land of Cyprus, Tatar stressed the significance of preserving their statehood, cultural identity, and the sacrifices they’ve made.
He also underscored the Greek Cypriot side’s reluctance to explore options beyond a federal framework, a point overlooked by Cuellar.
The president cautioned against a federation-based solution within the EU that excludes Turkey, warning that it would jeopardise Turkey’s guarantor role and result in the withdrawal of Turkish troops from the island.
