Turkish Cypriot leader presents 10-point peace plan in buffer zone meeting

The leaders of the Turkish and Greek Cypriot communities have held a significant meeting in the UN-controlled buffer zone, marking their first direct engagement in this format. Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President Tufan Erhurman presented a detailed 10-point proposal aimed at building confidence between the two sides and creating conditions for a comprehensive solution to the decades-long Cyprus dispute.

Comprehensive Proposal for Confidence Building

President Erhurman outlined his administration's 10-point plan, which includes practical measures such as establishing new border crossing points and implementing direct telephone communication between Turkish and Greek Cypriot border security forces. The proposal also addresses specific concerns like flag burning incidents at border areas and calls for the resumption of the EU Harmonization Committee. Erhurman described these measures as designed to "make life easier for both sides" by focusing on issues that appear more readily resolvable.

UN-Mediated Dialogue Process

The meeting, which lasted approximately 90 minutes at the official residence of the UN Secretary-General's special representative, included participation from Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, the UN chief's personal envoy on Cyprus, who joined via video conference. According to a UN statement, the talks were conducted "in a cordial atmosphere," with both leaders expressing commitment to engage with Holguin during her planned visit to the island in early December and to prepare for broader informal meetings under UN auspices.

Path Toward Broader Negotiations

While acknowledging that "there is currently no atmosphere for a solution on the island," President Erhurman emphasized that "efforts must be made to achieve a solution." Beyond the 10-point confidence-building package, the TRNC also formally communicated a four-point methodology for a comprehensive settlement to the Greek Cypriot administration. Both leaders authorized their presidential undersecretaries to maintain frequent contact and explore further joint meetings, establishing a framework for continued dialogue.