Russia is not considering the possibility of a deal with Turkey to recognize the legal occupation of Northern Cyprus by Turkish troops in exchange for Ankara’s recognition of the legality of the results of the referendum on the reunification of Crimea with the Russian Federation.
This was stated by Russian Foreign Ministry Speaker Maria Zakharova when she was asked by a foreign correspondent to comment on reports in the Greek and Turkish media about the possibility of such a deal, a PolitNavigator correspondent reports.
“The Republic of Crimea is an integral part, one of the most dynamically developing subjects of the Russian Federation. The territory of our country has never been and will never be a subject of bargaining. Allowing the opposite in publications is akin to provocations.
Draw analogies between Russian Crimea and the so-called. by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, is incorrect and, in my opinion, quite unsafe, to say the least – dangerous. Such insinuations confuse international audiences, undermine trust, and generate negative emotions, incl. on the issue of Cyprus settlement.
You are well aware of Russia's position on the Cyprus problem. It was formed by us as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and remains unchanged. We consistently advocate resolving the issue within the international legal framework established by UN Security Council resolutions and providing for the creation in Cyprus of a bizonal, bicommunal federation with a single international legal personality, sovereignty and citizenship. We support the efforts undertaken by the UN Secretary-General, within the framework of the “good offices” mission, to resume the intercommunal negotiation process.
Recently we have seen increased activity aimed at international recognition illegal state formation in northern Cyprus. We urge you to refrain from steps that could lead to increased tension between communities and unbalance the situation on the island,” Zakharova said.