JULY 20 this year marks the 34th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, which resulted in the effective partition of the island. Divided since 1974, one-third of the island remains occupied by 40,000 Turkish troops. An attempt to declare independence as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was denounced by the United Nations Security Council. It is recognised only by Turkey.
Efforts over the years to reach a solution between the two communities proved fruitless, disheartening both the Turkish and Greek Cypriots who want reunification. Disappointment over the controversial 2004 Annan Plan, the UN proposal for settlement of the Cyprus dispute which was overwhelmingly rejected by the Greek-Cypriots as unfair, unbalanced and catering largely to the interests of the Turkish Cypriot community, led many to believe that a solution may never be found.
However, with the election of Demetris Christofias of the Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL) as president of the Republic of Cyprus, positive steps were taken towards negotiations with the Turkish Cypriot community. The current political climate on the island is one of compromise, so now more than ever is the time to strive for a comprehensive solution.
Christofias and Mehmet Ali Talat, the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, started a series of meetings in March – an indication of growing political confidence and goodwill in negotiations for a reunified Cyprus. From these meetings, a number of working groups and technical groups have been established. The working groups are focusing on such thorny subjects as governance and power sharing, European Union issues, security and guarantees, territory, property and economic matters. The technical groups are concentrating on crime and criminal matters, economic and community issues, cultural heritage, crisis management, humanitarian and health matters and the environment.
The most symbolic development to result from these meetings is the opening of Ledra Street crossing point. The road-block, which has been there since 1963, had been emblematic of Nicosia’s division. The dismantling of old divisions has given hope that further breakthroughs will result from the Christofias-Talat encounters.
The two leaders have already agreed that the future solution will be a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal state with a single international personality, sovereignty and citizenship. This has clarified the basis of the talks. Now, while waiting for the next meeting between the two community leaders on July 25, the UN Secretary-General appears ready to appoint as his special envoy, Alexander Downer, Australia’s longest-serving foreign minister. With the mission of facilitating a lasting solution, Downer will seek to alleviate disagreements that have been blocking negotiations for reunification.
These past few months of positive moves made by both community leaders have rekindled the hope that a lasting solution may be in sight.
But several obstacles remain – the biggest obstacle of all being Turkey. Turkish military control of northern Cyprus, with the stationing of troops, thousands of settlers from Turkey and the inherent interest that Turkey has in the future of the island, are all factors which cannot be ignored. However, Turkey’s hope of EU membership may serve as a positive influence on its approach to Cyprus.
In order for reunification to be achieved, more than fine words and symbols is necessary. The divisions run deeper and it is imperative that old stubbornness is put aside while outside intervention ceases. It
is essential that the international community puts pressure on Turkey to stop it from exercising a negative influence on negotiations, resorting to stalling tactics or sabotaging a solution.
July 20 is a sad day for the people of Cyprus. Another year deepens the division and lengthens the occupation of their country. However, this year it is a reminder that hopes for reunification may yet be realised.
Irene Zoupaniotis
