President Ersin Tatar returns to North Cyprus after the 5+1 informal summit in New York. Key progress on confidence-building measures, dialogue with the UN, and firm positions on unresolved issues.
President Ersin Tatar returned to North Cyprus this evening after participating in the informal 5+1 summit on the Cyprus issue, held in New York. Speaking at a press briefing at Ercan Airport, Tatar emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot side once again demonstrated a constructive and solution-oriented approach during high-level diplomatic discussions.
“We made our voice heard in New York and conveyed our message to the international community,” he said, highlighting the TRNC’s commitment to peace and fairness.
✅ Progress on Confidence-Building Measures
President Tatar noted that progress was made on four out of six proposed confidence-building measures, a positive step forward in trust-building between the two communities.
However, he also pointed out a lack of movement on key areas, such as:
- Energy sector cooperation
- Opening of new crossing points
These proposals were stalled, Tatar said, due to the Greek Cypriot side’s unwillingness to compromise.
🙏 Appreciation for UN Secretary-General Guterres
Tatar extended his thanks to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, stating:
“Mr. Guterres understands the sensitivities of the Turkish Cypriot people very well. As a statesman who truly grasps the essence of the Cyprus issue, he has shown fairness in past meetings. I thank him sincerely.”
🚫 Rejected Cooperation on Drug Trafficking
One of the key disappointments of the summit was the Greek Cypriot side’s rejection of a Turkish Cypriot proposal to establish police cooperation on drug trafficking — a growing issue that affects both communities.
“Had this proposal been accepted, we could have jointly fought this threat that endangers youth on both sides of the island,” Tatar explained.
🔄 More Dialogue Expected in 2025
Looking ahead, President Tatar confirmed that:
- Another meeting is planned in September during the UN General Assembly
- A similar 5+1 format gathering may be scheduled later in the year
He reiterated the TRNC’s ongoing dedication to peace and diplomacy:
“As the Turkish Cypriot side, we have never avoided dialogue or diplomatic engagement.”