Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman has criticised the Republic of Cyprus’ growing cooperation with Greece and Israel, claiming that partnerships in defence and energy are evolving into what he described as an “anti-Turkish axis”, a development he says undermines prospects for a solution to the Cyprus problem.
In a written statement commenting on the New Year message of President Nikos Christodoulides, Erhurman said that although the president publicly places the Cyprus issue at the top of his priorities, actions and regional initiatives are instead creating a climate of confrontation with Turkey.
Referring to energy developments, Erhurman noted that with 2026 on the horizon, the Israel–Cyprus electricity interconnection project has returned to the forefront of discussions. He reiterated his long-held position that energy cooperation involving Cyprus, Turkey and Greece could serve as one of the strongest incentives for resolving the Cyprus problem.
“A solution will not come through creating or fuelling rivalries, but by building cooperation,” he said, adding that meaningful progress requires the creation of an appropriate political climate. According to Erhurman, such a climate cannot be achieved by ignoring the existence of Turkish Cypriots, but through approaches that recognise them, alongside Greek Cypriots, as equal partners.
He also called on those who state that they want a settlement to contribute to the creation of the right conditions not only through rhetoric but through concrete actions. The will for a solution, he added, should also be judged by developments taking place outside the negotiating table.
Concluding his statement, Erhurman said he would continue to put forward proposals aimed at fostering a climate conducive to a settlement, in line with the will of the Turkish Cypriot community.