Mavroyannis: Unconditional Return to the Negotiation Table is Crucial

In an interview with Haravgi newspaper, Mavroyannis discussed several possibilities for resuming negotiations.

According to the newspaper, Mavroyannis acknowledged some potential opportunities for the resumption of talks but stressed that the key point is for the Turkish Cypriot side and President Tatar to return to the table without preconditions.

He also mentioned the framework set by the United Nations for negotiations and expressed that he did not expect the Turkish side to suddenly abandon its stance on a two-state solution.

Mavroyannis continued, saying, “They have every right to say this, as long as they do not make it a precondition for the resumption of negotiations.”

Referring to the upcoming presidential elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Mavroyannis noted that if no developments occur in the negotiations, they would have to wait for the elections in the TRNC, as some changes are expected.

He further suggested that if someone other than President Tatar wins, it could bring about certain changes.

When asked whether the election of another candidate would automatically lead to a shift in the negotiation stance, Mavroyannis stated that Turkey’s influence remains significant, and the victory of another candidate could create a space where Turkey’s current position might change.

Regarding whether the UN Secretary-General’s stance of maintaining "equal distance" is still valid, Mavroyannis stated that the Greek Cypriot side’s claim about the General Secretary’s reports maintaining an "equal distance" is not accurate, calling it a well-known issue that is not particularly tragic.

He also clarified that the UN Secretary-General’s reports concern the UN’s work in Cyprus, rather than Cyprus itself.

Mavroyannis concluded by urging that events should not be dramatized to the point where one believes the UN is against them.