**Turkey Calls for Change in Greek Cypriot Stance Following Guterres' Visit**
Turkey's foreign ministry has issued a statement urging an end to what it describes as the "intransigent stance" of the Greek Cypriot side in the ongoing Cyprus dispute. This call comes on the heels of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recent visit to the island, where he emphasized the need for progress towards a resolution.
In a statement released after Guterres concluded his trip, Turkey expressed appreciation for the UN chief's efforts regarding the Cyprus issue since he assumed office. The ministry highlighted the lack of common ground between the two sides on the island and stressed that focusing on key areas of cooperation, as outlined in the process initiated by Guterres for 2025, could help build trust.
However, Turkey's foreign ministry underscored that any potential solution would remain elusive unless the Greek Cypriot side alters its current approach. The ministry claimed that the actions of the Greek Cypriots have negatively impacted regional security and reiterated that outdated solution models from previous decades are no longer viable.
As a guarantor state, Turkey reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and its people, insisting that a fair and sustainable resolution must be based on the realities of the island, including the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriots.
During his visit, Guterres announced plans for a new enlarged meeting on the Cyprus issue, contingent upon achieving "adequate progress" on confidence-building measures and the substantive aspects of the negotiations. He noted that there is a consensus among both sides and the island's three guarantor powers—Greece, Turkey, and the United Kingdom—regarding the necessity of such a meeting. Guterres emphasized the importance of avoiding another unproductive gathering, stating that Cypriots desire their leaders to make compromises and work towards a resolution.
Guterres also highlighted the broader implications of the Cyprus issue, stating that a resolution is vital not only for the people of Cyprus but also for stability in an increasingly volatile region. He cautioned that without a solution, Cyprus remains vulnerable amid regional tensions.
The call for a shift in the Greek Cypriot approach, coupled with Guterres' commitment to facilitating further discussions, indicates a continued effort to address the long-standing division of the island. As stakeholders reflect on the current state of affairs, the prospect of renewed dialogue remains a focal point for both the international community and the local populations.