Government measures for Turkish Cypriots announced ‘soon’ (Updated)

The government will “soon” announce unilateral measures for Turkish Cypriots, to coincide with the arrival of the new UN envoy to Cyprus, it emerged on Thursday.

Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the timing of the UN’s Maria Angela Holguin arrival will make “appropriate timing” for the announcement.

Holguin is expected to arrive to Cyprus on January 29.

Speaking to the state broadcaster, Letymbiotis said the measures were made as a result of suggestions from Turkish Cypriot citizens.

“They are measures based on the legal framework and send message that the Republic of Cyprus has the will and intention to be a common home for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriots.”

Asked about the matter later in the day, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar pointed out that reports of the measures have been circulating since August.

“Creating an image for the outside world is not what is needed. If you [Greek Cypriot side] are sincere, abandon your policy of aggression and start the process of cooperation.”

Tatar said the measures were a move by the Greek Cypriots “to promote their policy of sovereignty through the subordination of our people.”

Though not officially announced, they include hiring Turkish speaking staffers at citizens’ centres, expansion of the list of products that will be allowed to cross the Green Line (which will not be items competing with the Republic), facilitation for crossings for Turkish Cypriot workers and students, as well as an allowance for widowed Turkish Cypriots.

Holguin is expected to arrive to Cyprus on January 29.