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8 March, 2018Erhürman: “Acceptance of Turkish Cypriots’ political equality is “indispensable”
8 March, 2018Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım has said that the Greek Cypriot side should be mentally ready, should a permanent and sustainable solution be necessary on the island.
A press conference was held at Çankaya Palace following the bilateral and inter-delegation meetings between Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım and Prime Minister Tufan Erhürman.
Speaking at the press conference, Turkish Prime Minister Yıldırım said, “One important issue is the Cyprus problem and its solution. We discussed this comprehensively. We have exchanged views on next steps following the failed Crans Montana conference held last July.”
The Turkish Prime Minister said that the underlying reasons behind the failure of the conference without reaching a resolution should be analysed, and continued: “The international community and the Greek Cypriot administration need to understand that the Greek Cypriot side should be mentally ready for a permanent and lasting solution. The Greek Cypriot side should convince the Turkish Cypriot side that they are ready to share. Political equality, fair governance, fair sharing of welfare and trust between the two sides on a federal structure are important. Moreover, protection of our independence- which was gained with great sacrifices- the safety of life and property, and the continuation of Turkey’s guarantee under all circumstances are very important points. Seeking a solution without explicitly putting forward these principles will mean the issue remains inconclusive, and we will not reach a sustainable solution.”