Erhürman: Energy Issue Is Critical for Lasting Peace in Cyprus

In a statement shared via his personal social media account, Erhürman said a regional electricity link between Cyprus, Turkey, and Greece is of strategic importance for both the island and broader regional stability.

“We have been saying this for months, and we continue to convey this message to our counterparts in the South and the international community,” Erhürman noted.

He argued that an undersea electricity connection between Cyprus, Turkey, and Greece would be a significant step toward peace and stability in the region, and criticised the alternative project involving Israel, Greece, and South Cyprus, which he claimed lacks both political and economic rationality.

“Even those who initially supported the project, including the European Union, now understand it is unwise to invest further energy and funding into this initiative,” he said, referencing a recent report in Kıbrıs Postası that cited Greek Cypriot newspaper Alithia. The report warned of rising costs and potential compensation claims from the cable supplier NEXANS, due to delays attributed to Turkey.

Erhürman criticised Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides, saying he is avoiding a cooperative project that could support peace, while also risking his own public’s economic interests. “This is not the way forward. The only rational path is to take steps that contribute to a solution, lasting peace, and stability—especially if Mr. Christodoulides continues to claim he sincerely wants a solution,” Erhürman concluded.