Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar said that “the search for a solution on the basis of the federation is futile,” adding that the informal conference in Geneva would “underline that there is no common ground” between the two sides. The statements were made as part of his message for the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Dardanelles.
Regarding the Geneva conference, Mr. Tatar explained that the goal of the Turkish Cypriot side is "to point out that no more time should be wasted seeking a solution on the basis of the federation, which has been exhausted and does not reflect the consensus of the two sides."
Referring in more detail to the Cyprus issue, Mr. Tatar claimed that "the negotiation process that began in 1968 to reach an agreement based on a federal basis did not lead to a positive result due to the negative attitude of the Greek Cypriot side. Especially what happened in the Annan plan referendum and the Crans Montana negotiations showed that an agreement on a federal basis is not feasible," he said.
He continued by saying that "the Greek Cypriot side's perception of the federation includes the abolition of Turkey's guarantee, the removal of Turkish troops from Cyprus and the transformation of our people into a minority," adding that "these are not acceptable."
The Turkish Cypriot leader also stated that "Turkish Cypriots are fighting a great fight to protect their state, their freedom and sovereignty with the help and support of Turkey."
References to the anniversary of the Dardanelles
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In his message on the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Dardanelles, Tatar argued that Turkish Cypriots were inspired by this victory to "gain their freedom and establish their state."
Stating that the victory at the Dardanelles is one of the most important turning points in history, Mr. Tatar stated that it was “the harbinger of our War of Independence and the unity, brotherhood and solidarity demonstrated there highlighted the spirit that was essential for our struggle for independence.”
He added that "this great victory, which changed world history, while giving hope and inspiration to enslaved and oppressed nations, also served as a source of inspiration and strength for the struggle of the Turkish Cypriots for sovereignty, independence, existence and freedom."
