Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reiterated Ankara’s commitment to a two-state model in Cyprus, arguing that such an arrangement could eventually open the way for “a new type of cooperation or even political unity,” depending on the parties involved. Speaking to the English-language channel TRT World, Fidan also suggested that the Republic of Cyprus’ upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union could “be an opportunity for us.”
Asked whether Cyprus’ presidency in 2026 represents a challenge or an opportunity for Ankara, Fidan responded that Turkey has long experience dealing with Cyprus in international fora. “Wherever they find the opportunity, they block us,” he said. “But given the threats Europe faces today, cooperation between the EU and Turkey is more relevant and important than ever.”
Fidan said that what he termed the “Greek Cypriot entity” constitutes “a major obstacle between the EU and Turkey,” and blamed the EU’s internal decision-making structure for enabling such actions. He argued that the parties must “move away from the old mentality,” emphasising the need to avoid passing the Cyprus problem on to future generations.
He reiterated Ankara’s long-standing position that there are “realities on the island,” claiming the two-state approach is “the only realistic solution at the moment.” Fidan cited the Annan Plan and the Crans-Montana talks as examples of Turkish and Turkish Cypriot willingness to accept proposals involving a balance of power, resources and authority, and accused Greek Cypriots of rejecting such arrangements.
According to Fidan, once a two-state settlement is achieved, “a new type of cooperation or even political unity” could be explored. “This depends on them,” he added.
Fidan also argued that the current regional moment should be used to transform Cyprus into “a paradise,” pointing to investment opportunities in tourism, energy and industry seen in other Mediterranean states. He repeated Turkey’s call for ending what Ankara describes as “the isolation of Turkish Cypriots,” suggesting that economic cooperation could proceed even if the political dispute remains unresolved.
Insisting that “old goals and mentalities” hinder progress, Fidan said political leaders must work within societies shaped by decades of entrenched narratives, which makes sudden change difficult.
Source: CNA