The Minister of Public Works and Transportation Erhan Arıklı has said that plans to revive ferry services between Gaziamağusa and the Syrian port city of Latakia were in the works.
Arıklı provided a brief assessment of the meeting held with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, emphasizing its significance for bilateral relations and regional issues.
Speaking on Bayrak Radio Television’s (BRT) program “18th Hour” via telephone, Minister Erhan Arıklı stated that the meeting included discussions on the Cyprus issue and evaluations related to the ministries’ ongoing work.
Arıklı shared details of the dialogue, saying, “Minister Fidan underscored the importance of addressing bilateral relations and confidence-building measures with greater urgency.
He reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to the two-state policy as a fundamental principle, emphasizing that there would be no return to federation discussions.
He highlighted that even the United Nations, particularly the Security Council and the Secretary-General, no longer references a federation.
“This stance will be central in bilateral talks and the upcoming 4+1 summit scheduled for March. Türkiye’s firm position on this matter was once again conveyed to our government,” he said.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the TRNC government to express its own perspectives.
Minister Arıklı noted that he raised specific proposals during the discussions.
“I explored the possibility of reviving maritime routes between Gazimağusa and Latakia, particularly given the new administration in Syria and its efforts to strengthen ties with Türkiye. Additionally, I questioned whether direct flights between Ercan and Latakia could eventually be initiated,” he said.
Recalling historical context, Arıklı noted that past Gazimağusa-Latakia ferry services were suspended following complaints from South Cyprus to the European Union. However, the EU’s 2008 response clarified that the three ports in Northern Cyprus were not under embargo, establishing an important precedent. “This is a key opportunity to enhance the international use of Gazimağusa Port, starting with Latakia connections,” he explained.
Arıklı described the meeting as highly productive, adding that it provided valuable insights for advancing regional cooperation and strengthening TRNC’s strategic ties with Türkiye. brt
