Cyprus dispute: Calls for constructive confidence-building measures

Political actors in Northern Cyprus are calling for constructive approaches regarding the Cyprus dispute ahead of meetings with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodulides. The political group Bağımsızlık Yolu has urged President Tufan Erhürman to adopt confidence-building measures that serve all inhabitants of the island rather than focusing solely on Turkish Cypriot interests. Specifically, the group suggested that allowing Maronites to return to their villages could serve as a meaningful gesture of goodwill and maturity.

Former President Mehmet Ali Talat commented on the difficulty of reaching a comprehensive solution within the United Nations framework under current conditions. He argued that the Greek Cypriot side has historically avoided cooperation to prevent strengthening the international standing of the Turkish Cypriot side. Talat suggested that a ‘step-by-step solution’ approach should be considered in light of new regional dynamics. He also criticized legal actions taken by the Republic of Cyprus regarding the use of Greek Cypriot properties in the north, noting that the Immovable Property Commission must demonstrate its effectiveness to the international community.