Tufan Erhurman, the leader of the Turkish Cypriots, shares his thoughts on the new Lebanon-Cyprus Republic agreement. He points out that it is “another agreement that does not include the will of the Turkish Cypriots,” who he calls “one of the two equal owners of the island and one of the two equal co-founders with sovereign rights.”
Erhurman also mentions reports from the Greek Cypriot press about international efforts by the Turkish Cypriot side. He reminds everyone that he has said that beyond the negotiation table, efforts will continue. They will reach out to groups like the European Union, the Organization of Turkic States, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to share the Turkish Cypriots’ views and protect their rights and interests.
He notes that some parts of the Greek Cypriot press have strongly criticized his comments, claiming that “his real intention is not talks/negotiation/solution.” He acknowledges that public opinions on both sides impact the process but believes that the current situation “is neither fair nor supportive of a solution.”
Erhurman states it is unacceptable for “the Greek Cypriot leadership to continue signing agreements on behalf of the entire island without the will of the Turkish Cypriots” while expecting them “to remain isolated, relying on hopes for what will happen at the negotiation table.” He argues this reinforces “the logic of maintaining the status quo,” which “the Turkish Cypriot side does not accept.”
The leader of the Turkish Cypriots explains what “the new period” means to him, highlighting four points:
- The Turkish Cypriots want a solution.
- They do not accept being ignored until a solution is found and decisions made that affect their future without their consent.
- They believe that unilateral actions do not contribute to a solution, stability, and peace on the island and in the region.
- They present proposals at the negotiation table, while also working to connect with the international community in every way possible.
“We will continue to explain this everywhere with patience, calmness, and determination,” Erhurman concludes.
