LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Greek Cypriots should return to negotiations

OPINION:

Contrary to the Hellenic Institute’s Nick Larigakis’ latest round of histrionics (“Turkey’s Cyprus incursion nothing new,” Letters, Jan. 21), the appearance of a civilian seismic exploration vessel offshore is a modest assertion of the inherent rights of Turkish Cypriots and a peaceful response to the Greek Cypriot side’s disruptive, unilateral actions.

Mr. Larigakis neglects to mention that Greek Cypriot attempts to unilaterally exploit the hydrocarbon resources is the source of renewed tension in the Eastern Mediterranean. In contrast, the Turkish Cypriot side has repeatedly proposed to the Greek Cypriot administration through the United Nations the establishment of a bi-communal commission that would tackle all aspects of the exploration and extraction of the hydrocarbon resources on and around the island. Unfortunately, the Greek Cypriots rejected these offers.

The natural resources of Cyprus belong to the two peoples of the island, as such they must be utilized in a way that ensures both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots reap the economic benefits equitably and simultaneously. Accordingly, the joint management of the hydrocarbon resources is the only way that makes economic and logistical sense.

The argument that Turkish Cypriots will benefit from the revenues only after the achievement of a comprehensive settlement is unacceptable, as in plain terms this would amount to Turkish Cypriots being given what already rightly belongs to them only if they accept the terms of the Greek Cypriot leadership for a settlement. This is tantamount to blackmail.

The crux of the current conflict and tension lies in the ongoing Cyprus dispute. Therefore, the decision of the Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades to quit face-to-face negotiations is evidence of a lack of a commitment to finding a path to peace. The U.N.-led direct negotiations must resume without further delay. For this reason, we strongly believe that the United Nations and the U.S. Department of State should continue pressing the Greek Cypriot leadership to return to the negotiating table. A just and lasting resolution is a sine qua non for the prosperity of the island in the future as well as peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

AHMET ERDENGIZ

Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Washington