However, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in Istanbul today that a full pullout would be possible if Greece, which also deploys a small troop contingent in Cyprus, does the same.
Erdogan's remarks came a day after the top diplomats of Cyprus' "guarantors" -- Greece, Turkey and Britain -- discussed in Geneva the complex issue of protecting both communities from possible hostilities if a reunification deal unravels.
Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades said in Geneva today the fact that the guarantors broached security matters for the first time offers hope for a deal.