Özersay cautious against reopening crossings

Deputy Prime Minister-Foreign Minister Kudret Özersay said that entry into the TRNC via sea, air and land was open but that anyone arriving in the country would need to be placed under mandatory quarantine for 14-days at a state observed facility.

Speaking in parliament, Özersay said that the new practice will begin as of Tuesday as those working in South Cyprus who have undergone PCR testing and who have tested negative for Covid-19 will be allowed to cross to the south.

He, however, pointed out that anyone wishing to return will be placed in quarantine for 14 days.

Özersay said that they will want to see how the new practice proceeds for 14 days before opening the crossing points for everyone.

“The procedure for the crossings could have been different had the Greek Cypriot administration announced that it would not be allowing international flights to begin,” said Özersay.

“What we and the Science Board are saying is let’s observe and see the situation for the next 14 days. We will then make a decision if the Greek Cypriot side’s method works.”

He added that the decision to reopen crossing points on July 1 was not set in stone and could change if the situation deteriorated in the south.

Özersay also said that it will be the health ministry which will decide from which countries visitors will be allowed to enter the country as and when flights resume.