Further discussions on opening new checkpoints between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities depend on Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar’s response to President Nikos Christodoulides’s “four-plus-four” proposal.
The proposal, aimed at achieving mutual benefits for both communities, includes four new checkpoints and four additional measures related to previous bilateral discussions.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said all proposals must contain “an element of reciprocity” to ensure positive developments. The checkpoints package must be accepted as a whole rather than individually, he added.
A key point of contention is the proposed Louroujina crossing, where the Turkish Cypriot route proposal conflicts with the Greek Cypriot suggested Athienou-Piroi road.
Sources say the Greek Cypriot side is exploring alternative locations that could offer a compromise.
The Greek Cypriot administration remains optimistic about reaching an agreement despite the current impasse, the spokesman said, noting some improvement in Tatar’s approach compared to previous public statements.
The proposed Mia Milia crossing point would primarily benefit the Turkish Cypriot side, potentially providing better access to the airport in occupied Tymbou, according to Turkish Cypriot reports.
Technical details of the four crossing points will be discussed at a second meeting between the leaders, Letymbiotis said, adding that public debate of the proposals “would not be beneficial” at this stage.
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