The Head of Communications of the Turkish Presidency Fahrettin Altun emphasized that “after 60 years of fruitless negotiations in Cyprus, Turks have withdrawn their consent from the federation model”.

Speaking to a Greek newspaper, Altun recalled that the United Nations and the international community are on record that it is no longer possible to legitimately insist on a settlement model that does not have the consent of both sides.

Fahrettin Altun, Head of Communications of the Turkish Presidency, answered questions on Türkiye-Greece bilateral relations, to a Greek newspaper.

Asked what Türkiye is demanding in order to accept the parameters set by the UN for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation in Cyprus, Altun said that after nearly 60 years of fruitless negotiations on the basis of the federation, the Turks have withdrawn their consent from the outdated and unviable federation model both the UN and the international community have noted this.

“Finally, it is time to accept the reality on the ground. This reality is that there are two separate peoples and two separate states on the island of Cyprus. History has shown us beyond any doubt that only on this basis can a solution succeed. Neither Turkish Cypriots nor Türkiye want to waste another 60 years” said Altun.