“I will not be the architect of separation. As I am working on resolving this problem with all my goodwill with the Greek Cypriot side, which as some say does not demand a solution at all its costs, I will not be responsible for separation on the island,” stated Talat on a TV program yesterday.
The Turkish Cypriot leader also accused the Greek Cypriot side of failing to work comprehensively for the unification of the island because it had not backed the Annan plan, the UN scheme that was overwhelmingly approved by Turkish Cypriots but rejected by Greek Cypriots in simultaneous referenda in 2004.
He also referred to the independent situation of the Turkish Cypriot leadership, saying if a proposal is seen as unsuitable despite being beneficial for the talks, he would do his best to convince the people to accept the proposal for the negotiations.
When asked about his comments over the recognition of Turkish Cyprus, Talat emphasized that the currently negotiated proposal for a solution is the best option for Turkish Cyprus. “Thus we should focus on this [negotiation’s success]. This should be our target.”
Talat pointed to comments suggesting that Christofias wants another president to be elected in the Turkish Cypriot presidential election, which will be held on April 18, noting that he will run in the elections as an independent candidate.
Meanwhile, Talat dismissed the allegations that he holds a Greek Cypriot passport, saying: “I previously said there is nothing wrong with having a Greek Cypriot passport. I am personally not against it; however, I rejected offers to have one.” Talat explained why he refused the offers, stating that the Greek Cypriot administration does not have the authority to issue people a Republic of Cyprus passport. He also criticized some media organs that published the names of Turkish Cypriot citizens who have Greek Cypriot passports.
