Turkish Cypriot daily Star Kibris newspaper (13.08.14) reports that the former Turkish Cypriot leader, Mehmet Ali Talat has alleged that the USA has never said that the key of the Cyprus problem is in Turkey, but is aware of Turkey’s importance. In statements during a television program, Talat referred to what is described as allegation that the US Vice President, Joe Biden has said that the key to the solution in Cyprus is in Turkey. Talat claimed that statements, which say that the only determinant in the Cyprus problem is Turkey, are “extremely wrong” and described as “figment of imagination” the views which say that the Cyprus problem will be solved with the election of Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the presidency of Turkey.
Talat alleged thatthe reason for the non-solution should be searched in Cyprus and that “the key is here”. According to Talat, it could be said that the keys are actually five, that is, the three guarantor powers of the Republic of Cyprus and the two communities. “However, the center is Cyprus”, he argued.
Referring to those who say that either he is “elected” in next year’s “presidential elections” in the occupied area of Cyprus or the Turkish Cypriot leader Eroglu makes no difference since anyway Turkey’s wish is what happens, Talat alleged that “these campaigns support Eroglu”.
Responding to a question, Talat argued that the negotiations have come to a deadlock now and added that he expects no progress. He noted that pressure could be exerted by the world through Turkey. According to Talat Turkey might be directed towards the “TRNC”, breakaway regime in the occupied area of Cyprus, but no result should be expected from this. Talat argued that Turkey could be interested in the issue only when it sees that a result could be achieved.
Replying to another question, Talat alleged that the approach of the UN in Cyprus is ‘very passive” and argued that not much should be expected from this organization. According to Talat, the Turkish Cypriot side is the one that will cause activity on this issue.
Asked whether he would prefer a framework agreement or an overall solution, Talat responded that he prefers the overall solution, but under these circumstances of deadlock, a framework agreement could be discussed. “Perhaps, this is a way out”, he argued.
