Davutoglu urges Ban to come up with Cyprus plan

Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has urged the United Nations Secretary-General to come up with a plan to solve the Cyprus problem before his term ends in 2016.

Speaking after a meeting with Ban Ki-moon in New York on Thursday, Davutoglu said he had reminded the UNSG that the Turkish side had supported the Annan plan in 2004, which was rejected by the Greek Cypriot side.

“In 2004 we supported the Annan plan and I suggested to Mr Ban Ki-moon that we need now a Ban Ki-moon plan before the end of his term to end this long-standing crisis,” he said.

The UNSG’s term ends on December 31, 2016.

The Turkish PM also called on the Greek Cypriot side to return to the negotiating table, and for an international conference to be held as soon as possible.

“Instead of one sided actions and provocations about natural resources in Cyprus, negotiation at the table will be more beneficial. We will do everything possible for a sustainable comprehensive peace,” he said.

Talks have stalled after President Nicos Anastasiades pulled out in October when Turkey dispatched a research vessel to carry out seismic surveys inside the island’s exclusive economic zone.

Turkey claims that Greek Cypriots are exploiting the island’s natural resources for their own gain.

Greek Cypriots say Turkish Cypriots can share the potential benefits of energy exploration, but only when there is a deal.

The UN said Ban’s special adviser Espen Barth Eide continued his consultations.

“When he is ready to unveil something, it will be unveiled, but obviously Cyprus remains very high on the agenda for the Secretary-General” UNSG spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.
 

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