France opens a representative office in Northern Cyprus

The Russian Embassy in North Nicosia, Cyprus, will soon begin providing consular services. This was stated by a spokesman for the embassy. He noted that this step will be taken to fulfill Russia's obligations towards Russian citizens living in northern Cyprus. He noted, however, that the US, UK, Germany, Italy and France have long been providing consular services in northern Cyprus.

After news broke that Russia will soon start providing consular services in northern Cyprus, Northern Cyprus President Ersin Tatar said that Russia has already contacted Northern Cyprus on the issue.

Tatar noted that there are about 50,000 Russian citizens living in Northern Cyprus and added that this move by Russia shows that Northern Cyprus is being recognized, although this does not mean full recognition. The opened office of the representative office will allow Russian citizens residing in Cyprus to conveniently conduct consular procedures. Tatar noted that there are already US and UK offices in northern Cyprus and expressed hope for the positive impact of such a structure. He also emphasized that Northern Cyprus welcomes all legitimate requests and is positive about them.

The Tatar president noted that there is no exact information yet on where the representative office will be opened.

The North Cypriot representatives said the move does not constitute recognition.