PM Erdogan: If Athens Displays Courage, Embargo Ends

During his 9-hour visit to Cyprus yesterday, Erdogan met with Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) President Rauf Denktas.

In a message to the Greek Cypriot side and Greece, Erdogan said that both sides had to adopt a positive approach and that it was both parties’ responsibility to work towards a solution.

Erdogan stressed that Turkey and the TRNC would continue to take positive steps for the sake of the people on the island.

Questioned by Greek reporters – while visiting the Ledra Palas checkpoint – on whether he believed a solution could be reached with a single state or if he was determined to reach a solution as two separate states’, Erdogan said: "We have the red line. From the beginning, there were two separate states in Cyprus. Let’s keep it that way." Further questioned on whether he would be able to convince Denktas to sit down to negotiations again?’, Erdogan replied: "[only] After both parties agree to [negotiate]. Anyway, Mr. Denktas is in high spirits."

Edip Ali Yavuz / Lefkosa (Nicosia) / CYPRUS