Cyprus reunification on track?

Reunification talks between Turkey and Cypress are set to resume shortly…

Speaking at a meeting of the Center for Eurasian Strategic Studies (ASAM), Turkish Cypriot President Mehmet Ali Talat said: “Preparatory talks between the representatives of both sides are underway, and negotiations will start in late June.

“Talks with Mr Christofias are proceeding on a good path, however, that is not yet a rosy picture. It is too early to say that the current positive course in the wake of the presidential elections in the [Greek Cyprus] will lead us to a solution.  

“Greek Cypriots are still against finding a solution and that the impact of Papadopoulos on the new Greek Cypriot administration remains unknown.

Equality between States

Mr Talat continued: “We still believe that a viable and comprehensive solution should be based on parameters set by the United Nations, which seek the equality of the two states and the two nations. U.N. parameters cannot even be disputed”.

Talat went on to state that the nature of the talks would become clear when tougher issues such as property and shared political rights will be put on the table, adding: “The Turkish Cypriot leadership has the political will for a solution to the Cyprus problem a possible solution will dissipate ambiguities of the future, and dispel the worries of the Greek Cypriots. It will also rid Turkey of its serious obstacle to the EU membership negotiations”.

 When asked his opinion on the Turkish military's position for a solution to the Cyprus problem, Talat said that there is no split between his government's view and Turkey.