Prime minister faces backlash for mishandling Cyprus diplomatic relations
- Keir Starmer visited Cyprus for official talks, marking a significant diplomatic milestone as the first UK prime minister to do so in over 50 years.
- He engaged with Greek Cypriot president Nikos Christodoulides but declined to meet Turkish Cypriot president Ersin Tatar, causing diplomatic tensions.
- Critics argue that failing to engage with both sides undermines trust and the potential for meaningful dialogue on the ongoing Cyprus issue.
On December 9, 2024, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Cyprus amidst considerable diplomatic scrutiny due to his approach regarding the island's long-divided status. Starmer's arrival marked the first official visit by a UK prime minister aimed at bilateral discussions in over 50 years. His itinerary included meetings with Nikos Christodoulides, the president of the Republic of Cyprus, located in the Greek Cypriot-controlled southern part of the island. Notably absent from his schedule were any discussions or engagement with Ersin Tatar, the president of the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), further complicating the already fraught diplomatic landscape of the region. This visit is significant as it seeks to revisit and address the ongoing Cyprus problem, which has persisted since the Turkish military intervention in 1974. This intervention followed a coup aimed at unifying the island with Greece, leading to its division. The Greek Cypriot side has received international recognition, whereas the TRNC remains unrecognized, operating as an entity supported solely by Turkey. Efforts to unify the island have historically been met with hurdles, most notably through plans like the Annan Plan in 2004, which faced rejection by the Greek community after a referendum. Starmer's refusal to meet with Tatar, despite calls for dialogue from Turkish Cypriot organizations, has drawn criticism, notably from advocates who emphasized the importance of engaging with both sides to foster a conducive environment for peace talks. The UK has a unique role as one of the guarantor powers for Cyprus, alongside Greece and Turkey, thereby holding a responsibility to engage equitably with both parties in the conflict. The lack of contact with Tatar has raised questions about Starmer's commitment to fair diplomacy, particularly given his previous involvement in the Northern Ireland peace process, which necessitated dialogue with all parties involved. Amidst this criticism, advocates for Turkish Cypriots are urging Starmer to reconsider his stance and recognize the importance of including Turkish Cypriots in any discussions concerning the future of the island. They highlight that diplomacy should not ignore the Turkish Cypriot community, arguing that fair treatment of both communities is vital for restoring trust and opening channels for cooperation. This situation reflects broader geopolitical tensions and the historical complexities tied to the division of Cyprus, underscoring the necessity for a balanced approach to conflict resolution if any progress is to be achieved in reunifying the island.