Turkey reaffirmed its stance on a two-state solution for Cyprus, ahead of upcoming United Nations talks aimed at restarting peace negotiations. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that efforts to resolve Cyprus’ long-standing division should focus solely on a two-state solution, arguing that any alternative would be a “waste of time.”
Background of Cyprus’ Division
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey intervened militarily in response to a Greek-led coup aimed at uniting the island with Greece. As a result, Cyprus was split into the internationally recognized Greek Cypriot-controlled south and the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north, which declared independence in 1983 but is recognized only by Turkey.
Stalemate and Future Talks
Despite previous attempts at peace, including the 2017 collapse of the last major push for a settlement, Turkey maintains that the future of Cyprus must be based on two separate states, where Turkish Cypriots would not be reduced to a minority status.
The United Nations is expected to meet with all parties involved in the spring, aiming to restart formal negotiations on one of the world’s most enduring conflicts.