Papapetru: The Revolution of the Turkish Cypriots During Annan Plan era Was Unprecedented

Mihalis Papapetru emphasized that the Annan Plan did not emerge suddenly in November 2002. He noted that various discussions had been held since 1977, during which fundamental provisions were debated.

Papapetru pointed out that with Mehmet Ali Talat assuming leadership among the Turkish Cypriots, the Greek Cypriots could no longer hide behind Denktaş. He highlighted Tasos Papadopoulos's attitude during and after 2003 negotiations, along with his negative approach during his presidency. Reminding of Tasos Papadopoulos's televised rejection of the Annan Plan, Papapetru provided insights into the period when the plan was presented to the parties, mentioning Kleridis's instruction to the negotiation team to present as many proposals as possible.

Papapetru noted that a significant portion of the Greek Cypriot proposals ended up in the third version of the plan, primarily because there was no objection from the Turkish side. He stated, "In the end, the third version of the Annan Plan was more favorable for the Greek Cypriot side compared to the original Plan."

Papapetru remarked that the situation changed when Mehmet Ali Talat came to power, describing the Turkish side as flexible and candid at that time. Recalling his statement in 2002 as Government Spokesperson at the Copenhagen Press Center, immediately after Cyprus's EU membership decision was accepted due to the Turkish side's rejection, Papapetru expressed his regret and disappointment, saying, "I am sorry and disappointed that we have not been able to resolve the Cyprus problem and that my country is joining the EU. We are still divided." He acknowledged facing significant criticism from the Greek Cypriot side due to his remarks.

Papapetru concluded by stating, "We must not forget that the years 2002-2004 saw an unprecedented surge among the Turkish Cypriots."