TURKISH REACTION TO DRAFT UNSC PRESIDENTIAL

C O N F I D E N T I A L ANKARA 002424 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 04/29/2014 TAGS: CY PGOV PREL TU SUBJECT: TURKISH REACTION TO DRAFT UNSC PRESIDENTIAL STATEMENT ON CYPRUS REF: STATE 94941 (U) Classified by Ambassador Eric Edelman, E.O> 12958, reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). ¶1. (C) Ambassador Edelman delivered reftel points to Turkish MFA U/S Ziyal on April 29. The Ambassador emphasized that although the draft Statement is not perfect from Turkey's perspective, the Turks should not let that stand in the way of agreeing to a good statement. The Ambassador specifically noted that the U.S. and UK are prepared to make follow-on statements referring to the European Council's April 26 statement. ¶2. (C) Ziyal said that SRSG DeSoto and UK Ambassador Westmacott also discussed the draft Statement with him, and he spoke to FM Gul on the matter. Gul expressed appreciation for U.S. efforts but hoped for more U.S. leadership than to simply follow the EU position. Ziyal cited numerous problems with the draft, including its reference to the "people of Cyprus," all of which he said will cause significant problems in Ankara. ¶3. (C) Ziyal said the draft Statement will do more harm than good from the Turkish perspective. He said the Turks preferred a short press statement expressing disappointment at the failure to take advantage of the opportunity on April 24, and noting that the UNSC awaits the SYG's Report. Ziyal said DeSoto and German PermRep Plueger agree with this approach. ¶4. (C) Deputy U/S Ilkin called Ambassador Edelman later on April 29 and noted that Turkish PermRep Pamir informed him that there is a dispute about inclusion in the Statement of any reference to referendum results. Ilkin requests that the U.S. make a statement to the press referring to Turkish Cypriot approval of the referendum and calling for an end to their isolation. EDELMAN