Nicosia, Cyprus. Former Turkish Cypriot negotiator Kudret Ozersay said on Wednesday that renewed efforts on the Cyprus issue risk leading to disappointment if they are not grounded in realistic objectives. He said there is currently no concrete negotiation process in place and warned against raising hopes that cannot be fulfilled.
Statement on negotiations
In a statement issued on social media, the leader of the People’s Party (HP) said a durable agreement can only emerge through “realistic approaches in both method and content” and by taking account of what he described as the realities on the island.
Criticism of planned meeting
Ozersay criticised the announcement of a planned expanded meeting on the Cyprus issue, saying expectations had been created before any process had been properly prepared or focused on achieving results.
Domestic political factors
According to Ozersay, domestic political considerations are playing a significant role in shaping the current climate. He claimed that President Nikos Christodoulides faces increasing pressure to demonstrate movement on the Cyprus issue ahead of the 2028 presidential election and suggested that the objective is to restart negotiations rather than secure a comprehensive settlement.
Warning over renewed dialogue
Ozersay said this could result in “negotiating for the sake of negotiating” rather than pursuing a process capable of producing an outcome. He also alleged that political actors on both sides may seek electoral advantage from the launch of a new dialogue, regardless of whether it ultimately succeeds.
Call for lasting solution
He said Cyprus requires “a comprehensive and lasting solution” rather than “a new and endless negotiation process”. Addressing the international dimension of the issue, Ozersay questioned the ability of the United Nations to drive a breakthrough under current circumstances.