Erhürman: We Are Far Ahead Of Where We Started On Cyprus Issue

Speaking at a press conference titled “200 Days in Office,” Erhürman reviewed his first months in office and outlined five main policy areas, noting that the Cyprus issue remains the presidency’s core responsibility.

He said the Turkish Cypriot people’s desire for a settlement goes beyond electoral figures, adding that no president can ignore this reality.

Erhürman reiterated his four-point negotiation methodology, saying it is based on lessons learned from past failed processes. “We do not want negotiations for the sake of negotiations, but negotiations that lead to a solution,” he said.

He noted that contacts with the European Union also cover issues beyond the Cyprus talks, including Schengen arrangements, halloumi, and technical cooperation areas.

On confidence-building measures, Erhürman said progress has been made on crossing points, though not at the desired level. He also said work is ongoing on a long-awaited report regarding halloumi inspections.

He highlighted efforts on establishing a bicommunal civil society committee and said international engagements are being pursued in the interests of the Turkish Cypriot community.

Referring to relations with the Turkish Devletleri Teşkilatı (Organization of Turkic States) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Erhürman said the current observer status is being used to advance Turkish Cypriot interests, adding that international relations cannot be viewed narrowly.

He stressed that Cyprus negotiations are being conducted in full consultation with Türkiye, noting that no Turkish Cypriot leader has acted without coordination with Ankara.

On governance, he said a public administration monitoring unit had resolved 132 of 183 complaints received within 200 days.

Erhürman said the process on Cyprus is “far ahead of where it started,” but cautioned that no final outcome has yet been reached, adding that the Turkish Cypriot community does not want another disappointment after past failed negotiations.

He also commented on a possible 5+1 meeting format, saying he supports talks only if they produce meaningful results rather than being symbolic.

On regional security and energy issues, Erhürman said any initiative excluding Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye in the Eastern Mediterranean would not succeed, noting that he agrees with recent remarks by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

He also addressed legal and citizenship-related issues, including property commission cases and EU citizenship rights for children of mixed marriages, and said a Political Parties Council meeting will be convened next week.