Erdogan Reiterates Two-State Solution for Cyprus on Invasion Anniversary

On July 20, 2024, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dampened expectations for a renewed dialogue concerning the longstanding ethnic split of Cyprus. His remarks came during a ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Turkish military intervention that bifurcated the island.

Pursuing a two-state solution, Erdogan firmly dismissed the prospect of a peace negotiation modeled around a United Nations-sanctioned federal structure—an approach favored by Greek Cypriots. This rejection comes despite hopes from Greece and the Greek Cypriot community that Erdogan might exhibit flexibility regarding the federation proposal.

The date is particularly significant for Turkish Cypriots, who celebrate what they perceive as liberation from the predominance of the Greek-speaking population. The Turkish incursion followed a coup attempt backed by Greece that aimed to unite the island with the Greek nation, further complicating the historical context.

As the sun rose on this solemn anniversary, air raid sirens signaled the beginning of a day that holds different meanings for each community on the island. For Greek Cypriots, the day marks a tragedy that resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of a large segment of their population. Conversely, Turkish Cypriots engaged in jubilant celebrations in the northern part of Nicosia, the island’s capital, which remains divided.

Erdogan’s assertions may further hinder UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres‘ endeavors to rekindle negotiations. Guterres’ special envoy, Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, has been on a mission for the past six months to evaluate the sentiments of both sides for potential reconciliatory talks.

During the commemorative event, Erdogan told attendees, «We continue to advocate strongly for the recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and a transition to a two-state resolution.» He emphasized that without acknowledging the rights of Turkish Cypriots, genuine progress remains unattainable. Erdogan reiterated, «A federal arrangement for Cyprus is not feasible, and we stand firm in that belief.»

In response to Erdogan’s stance, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar echoed support for the call for recognition of their unilateral declaration of independence, made in 1983 and recognized solely by Turkey. Tatar informed his constituents that establishing equal status is paramount to any ongoing negotiations.

On the Greek Cypriot side, President Nikos Christodoulides has expressed a desire for Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots to engage in discussions aimed at reunification. He emphasized that genuine stability and security in the region can only occur through such dialogues, aligning closely with the principles endorsed by the European Union.

Despite the discouraging political landscape, many on both parts of the island still harbor a glimmer of hope for peace. Nonetheless, the path to negotiation has seldom gone smoothly, highlighted by failures in past dialogues—most notably during the last significant attempt in 2017, which took place in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.

The current 50-year mark of division is the longest period Cyprus has endured without formal discussions aimed at reconciling the two communities. As a day of remembrance unfolded in the south, Greek Cypriot activities included ceremonies honoring those who lost their lives during the coups and invasions, including tributes at memorials.

Later in the day, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis participated in a remembrance event, advocating for unified efforts to foster a shared future. He remarked, «Too much time has been lost. A forced split is never a viable solution, and hope for a united Cyprus persists.»

In the north, Erdogan’s event featured a display of military might, showcasing Turkey’s modern defenses, including advanced amphibious assault ships. While Turkish Cypriots celebrated what they call their liberation, Greek Cypriots used the occasion to protest against the ongoing division.

The ongoing tensions highlight the stark contrasts between the Greek Cypriots’ mourning of a painful past and the jubilant observance of Turkish Cypriots. The juxtaposition of these events serves as a reminder of the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the Cyprus issue.

Though Erdogan and Tatar have maintained their position against a federated solution, the quest for a peaceful resolution rooted in mutual recognition and respect remains critical, both for the people of Cyprus and for the broader regional landscape.