Turkish Cypriot media have reacted with cautious optimism to the prospect of a new enlarged 5+1 conference on the Cyprus issue, highlighting it as a potential opportunity for renewed momentum while stressing the importance of thorough preparation and progress on confidence-building measures (CBMs).
In their first response following remarks by UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the old Nicosia airport, most Turkish Cypriot outlets focused on his message that the process should remain active, while ensuring that any future enlarged meeting is properly prepared and capable of producing concrete results.
Focus on preparation
Reporting has generally been measured rather than celebratory, with considerable emphasis placed on Guterres' call for progress on confidence-building measures, methodology and substantive issues before a new conference is convened.
While several outlets noted that Turkey appears to have given the green light for a new meeting, they simultaneously stressed that adequate preparation will be required if it is to succeed.
Yeni Düzen
According to Yeni Düzen, Guterres announced that consensus exists between the two sides and the three guarantor powers on holding a new enlarged meeting.
The newspaper's online edition led with the headline: "We will prepare for a 5+1 meeting," highlighting what it sees as the next step for the United Nations.
The publication also drew attention to Guterres' comments that he does not want another meeting that fails to produce results. It reported that sufficient preparation is needed on confidence-building measures, methodology and the substance of the Cyprus issue, while taking into account understandings already reached.
Kıbrıs Postası
Kıbrıs Postası adopted a more restrained tone.
The news website reported that the two sides and the guarantor powers have agreed in principle to hold a new 5+1 meeting.
However, it emphasised that Guterres expects progress on confidence-building measures, methodology and substantive aspects of the Cyprus problem before the conference is convened.
The report also highlighted his insistence that he does not wish to see another inconclusive meeting.
Bugün Kıbrıs
Bugün Kıbrıs placed particular emphasis on the confidence-building measures requested by Guterres, the methodology of future talks and the next steps in the process.
The outlet also prominently featured activities and interventions by organisations and citizens from both communities who called for the resumption of negotiations aimed at achieving a bizonal, bicommunal federation.
Gıynık
Gıynık focused more on Guterres' observation that he detected a strong desire for peace among Cypriots.
The publication highlighted his appeal for the two leaders to intensify efforts on confidence-building measures that would have a practical impact on people's daily lives.
It also reported on the decision to pursue a new 5+1 meeting and the continuation of UN contacts with both sides and the guarantor countries.
Haber Kıbrıs
Haber Kıbrıs concentrated primarily on Guterres' visit to the island, placing particular emphasis on his call for confidence-building measures from the two leaders.
