President Ersin Tatar visited Haspolat to evaluate plans for a new border crossing, emphasizing its potential to ease congestion at the Metehan Border Crossing and boost trade between the two sides.

Speaking at the Haspolat Muhtarlık Office, Tatar noted the proposed crossing would benefit both north and south Lefkoşa by fostering economic cooperation and reducing traffic bottlenecks.

Accompanied by Lefkoşa Turkish Municipality (LTB) Mayor Mehmet Harmancı, Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Commerce President Turgay Deniz, and Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Industry President Ali Kamacıoğlu, President Tatar received support for the project.

Following the briefing, Tatar conducted inspections in the area alongside representatives from the Office of the President, the Cyprus Turkish Security Forces, and the military.

President Tatar expressed his support for opening a second vehicular crossing in Nicosia, citing ongoing discussions with the United Nations and Greek Cypriot leaders.

Highlighting that 65% of border traffic occurs at Metehan, Tatar stated that the Haspolat crossing would alleviate this pressure significantly.

He added that there is strong collective will to move forward with the project, which he believes would positively impact both communities.

Also speaking, the President of the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce (KTTO) Turgay Deniz underscored the importance of collaboration between the two communities, suggesting that increased trade is vital for building trust and stability.

“A new crossing in Lefkoşa is urgently needed as the majority of transitions occur here,” Deniz said, adding that such measures are essential for fostering cooperation.

The Mayor of Lefkoşa Mehmet Harmancı described the current situation at the Metehan border crossing as “an ordeal” and voiced strong support for the Haspolat project.

He stressed the need for a new crossing to function independently, free from reliance on existing crossings.

For his part the head of the Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Industry Ali Kamacıoğlu also emphasized the necessity of opening new crossings, describing Haspolat as a strategically suitable location.

He urged Greek Cypriot leaders to support the project unconditionally for the mutual benefit of both sides.