Talat: The guarantees are an international agreement; The referendum could be held in 2017
Turkish Cypriot daily Yeni Duzen newspaper (13.08.16) reported that Mehmet Ali Talat, leader of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP), has argued that it is absolutely necessary for the Cyprus negotiations, which are quickly advancing in a positive manner, to be concluded by the end of 2016 and added that the seven meetings to be held by the leaders in September will shed light on the situation.
Speaking at a press conference, Talat alleged that if the Cyprus problem does not end [in 2016], it will become a “victim” of the campaign for the presidential elections in the government-controlled area of Cyprus. He said that his press conference aimed at pointing out that time is “getting tight” as regards the Cyprus problem. “At this stage every effort should be exerted for concluding the negotiations by the end of the year, but it could perhaps be allowed for the referendum process to remain in 2017”, he added.
Responding to a question regarding Turkey’s contribution to the process, Talat expressed the belief that in spite of the trauma which Turkey experienced recently, it will heal its wounds and contribute positively to the process. “The negative developments in Turkey influence us negatively. If a coup happened in Turkey, the solution would become impossible. The impression we get from Turkey is that its stance has not changed”, he alleged.
Referring to the guarantees, Talat said that this is an issue which will be discussed at the negotiating table and added that he does not think that the statements of the sides on this issue are correct. He noted that the guarantees are an issue of an international agreement and said: “The issue of guarantees cannot be decided and implemented only by the two sides in Cyprus. It should be discussed in an environment in which the guarantor powers will also participate”.
Arguing that contrary to 1960, the state to be established now will have a “two founding state structure”, Talat claimed: “The guarantees could also be arranged by taking into consideration this change. The important thing is for both sides to feel secure”.
