Representatives from the Republic’s Assembly, Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu (UBP, Gazimağusa MP) and Fikri Toros (CTP, Girne MP), shared their assessments of their recent engagements in Geneva during the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meetings.
The two MPs participated in the “Cyprus Facilitators Group” session, representing the TRNC Parliament.
Both MPs highlighted the challenges and opportunities discussed during the meetings, with a particular focus on cooperation and the ongoing Cyprus issue.
Evaluating the meetings, National Unity Party MP and Party Secretary General Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu expressed his disappointment with the stance of the Greek Cypriot delegation, stating, “Once again, the Greek Cypriot Administration has disappointed us during the ‘Cyprus Facilitators Group’ meeting.”
He explained that during the session, Swiss MP Laurent Wehrli called for collaboration between the parliaments of the Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots to create joint legislative efforts for the benefit of the people on the island.
However, this proposal was rejected by the Greek Cypriot side.
Hasipoğlu emphasized that the proposed joint efforts were intended to address common issues such as climate change and disaster management.
He noted that while the Greek Cypriots often emphasised their desire for a solution, they failed to take the trust-building measures necessary for progress, underscoring the importance of enhancing cooperation as a first step.
He further remarked, “Before any progress can be made, cooperation must be established. Building trust through cooperation is essential to shape the negotiation table. Once again, the Greek Cypriot Administration has disappointed us.”
Republican Turkish Party Girne MP Fikri Toros also shared his thoughts, highlighting the discussions on the geopolitical context surrounding Cyprus and ways to overcome the deadlock in resolving the Cyprus issue.
He noted that the meeting also included exchanges on the new initiative taken by the UN Secretary-General.
Toros emphasized the absence of a formal negotiation process over the past seven and a half years, stressing the importance of maintaining dialogue and diplomacy during this period.
He stated that the TRNC delegation valued the opportunity provided by the Geneva meeting to advance these goals, adding, “We will continue to be the voice of the Turkish Cypriot people on international platforms.”