Turkey pursues dual-track strategy on Cyprus ahead of UN initiatives

As of September 20, 2026, reports indicate that Turkey is employing a dual-track strategy regarding the Cyprus issue. While President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has encouraged UN Secretary-General António Guterres to move forward with plans for a new informal five-party conference, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan appears to be complicating these diplomatic efforts. Analysts suggest that this is not a sign of internal disagreement, but rather a coordinated effort by the Turkish leadership to maintain a facade of cooperation while pursuing an alternative "Plan B.

The primary objective of this "Plan B," directed by Hakan Fidan—a figure noted for his background in intelligence—is to seek an upgrade for the breakaway entity in Northern Cyprus. By leveraging the final diplomatic push of the outgoing UN Secretary-General, Ankara reportedly aims to ensure that if the informal conference fails, it can justify further efforts to promote the international recognition of the separatist entity. Erdogan’s encouragement of Guterres is also seen as a tactical move to improve broader EU-Turkey relations, particularly as Guterres maintains open lines of communication with European Council President Antonio Costa.