The latest developments regarding the opening of new border crossings were discussed on BRT’s ‘18th Hour’ program.
Guest speakers, Mayor of Lefkoşa Turkish Municipality Mehmet Harmancı and Mayor of Değirmenlik-Akıncılar Ali Karavezirler, emphasized the need to facilitate mutual crossings and expressed their hope for the momentum gained in discussions to yield concrete results.
Speaking on the program, Mayor Harmancı highlighted that approximately 3.5m non-TRNC citizens have crossed through the Metehan checkpoint.
He reiterated that the municipality has long been advocating for the opening of additional crossing points at various locations in Lefkoşa.
Harmancı stressed the importance of ensuring that the positive momentum in talks for the opening of new crossing points with the Greek Cypriot side leads to tangible outcomes.
He also called for a constructive approach from all stakeholders and suggested that any security concerns regarding transit crossings should be addressed through mutual measures at the negotiation table.
Meanwhile, Mayor Karavezirler noted that the process for opening the Haspolat and Akıncılar checkpoints has gained momentum.
He announced that a meeting between the two sides is scheduled for February 10 to discuss the matter further.
Expressing optimism, Karavezirler stated, “The process is accelerating, and I see a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe the crossings could open by September.”
Particularly regarding the Akıncılar crossing, Karavezirler emphasized that its opening would end the village’s ‘isolated settlement’ status and breathe new life into the community.