Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman said in a televised interview that discussions on the Cyprus issue should not focus on the terminology used to describe potential settlement models, but on their actual content.
Referring to the concept promoted by Turkey following Crans‑Montana, namely “sovereign equality” and “equal international status,” he noted that this remains a conceptual framework that has neither been sufficiently analysed nor defined in concrete terms.
As he explained, any term or label may be used for a possible settlement, but the key question is what the solution actually entails and whether it meets the expectations and rights of both communities. For this reason, he insisted that before any substantive discussion, a specific methodology for negotiations must be agreed. He referred to his proposed four‑point methodology as the basis for moving forward.
Amid consultations led by UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin, with a view to convening a five‑party conference on Cyprus towards late July or early August, Erhurman reiterated that the Turkish Cypriot side seeks negotiations aimed at achieving a solution, rather than talks conducted merely for the sake of maintaining a process. The objective, he said, must be a genuine outcome rather than an endless dialogue.
“We have a say”
Erhurman placed particular emphasis on a number of issues which, in his view, concern both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots equally. He referred specifically to natural gas, electricity interconnections, hydrocarbons, energy, trade routes and maritime zones.
He argued that Turkish Cypriots have equal rights and political weight in these areas and that neither side can act unilaterally. Decisions on such matters, he said, require joint management on the basis of political equality.
In the same context, he addressed the issue of Cyprus’ security, arguing that decisions affecting the future and security of the island have equal consequences for both communities. Therefore, Turkish Cypriots must have an equal say in decisions related to security, regional cooperation and strategic planning.
Full coordination
The Turkish Cypriot leader also stated that he remains in full coordination and consultation with Turkey on matters concerning the Cyprus issue. He said he is in continuous communication with the Turkish leadership and does not observe any friction or lack of alignment in relations with Ankara. According to him, every step related to the Cyprus issue is discussed within a framework of coordination and mutual understanding with the Turkish government.
A significant part of the interview focused on the issue of children from mixed marriages. Erhurman argued that this matter should not be linked to an overall settlement and that those affected should be granted their rights immediately.
He described the issue as discriminatory, citing references in international reports, and pointed to cases of individuals who have waited for many years to obtain citizenship.
At the same time, he stressed that he raises the issue in all his international contacts with foreign officials, diplomats and representatives of international organisations, underlining that consistency and clarity of positions are essential for effectively promoting Turkish Cypriot arguments on the international stage.
