EU Content With Talat’s Victory in TRNC

A statement released by the EU Commission highlighted the Commission’s determination to end sanctions. It said the Turks have clearly demonstrated their interest in a solution and announced that the Commission is ready to support any attempts to reach a solution on the island. The Commission’s plan to approve 259 million euros in financial aid and special conditions for trade were also noted in the statement. This is seen as a way to ease integration and encourage economic development for Turkish Cypriots.

Legendjik said the Union should do two things without losing any time: first, the two by-laws that were promised should be passed; and second, the Greek Cypriot Administration’s leader Tasos Papadopulous should be pressured to make a public announcement clearly explaining what he wants from the Annan plan.

According to Lagendjik, if Papadopulous insists on his path toward dissolution, he will become "marginal." Since the April 24th referenda on the island, the Greek leader has been on the side of dissolution and has only contributed excuses and delays. The EU should not put up with his politics any longer, says Lagendjik.

Lagendjik admitted that at first he was worried that anti-solution parties would win the TRNC elections, but has been comforted by the outcome and is pleased with the victory of those who support a solution. With Talat’s victory, Turkey’s hand in the October 3rd negotiation process is also strengthened. Lagendjik will visit the TRNC before the presidential elections in Northern Cyprus in April.