Erhürman Ready For Talks, But Stresses Need For Outcome-Focused Negotiations

Speaking on the “Objektif” programme broadcast on Kibris Postasi TV and hosted by Erçin Şahmaran, Erhürman addressed a broad set of issues ranging from regional security dynamics to confidence-building measures, the status of British bases on the island, and the future of negotiations under United Nations auspices.

Responding to questions about the militarisation of South Cyprus, Erhürman said he does not perceive a direct and serious threat for the northern part of Cyprus. However, he cautioned against the assumption that there is no risk at all, noting that such an interpretation would not reflect the realities of the region. He argued that developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly defence cooperation agreements signed by South Cyprus with countries such as Israel and France, contribute to shifting perceptions of security and risk.

Erhürman further stated that the increased sense of threat in South Cyprus is partly linked to these agreements, which he described as part of efforts to establish a military balance against Turkey. He also suggested that the presence of British sovereign base areas adds another layer of complexity to the regional security environment and may have indirect consequences, including potential effects on tourism and civilian life.

Emphasising the importance of responsible communication by public officials, Erhürman said that during periods where public concern about security is heightened, those in positions of authority should speak carefully, prioritising transparency and state seriousness while avoiding unnecessary escalation. He stressed that official statements can resonate beyond domestic audiences and influence international perceptions, summarising his position with the view that the region can be described as relatively secure, yet still carrying inherent risks.

On the issue of the British sovereign base areas, Erhürman argued that any discussion regarding their legal status or future arrangements cannot exclude Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot side. He noted that under the framework of the 1960 agreements, both Turkey and Turkish Cypriots are parties to the constitutional and international structure of the island. While acknowledging that the United Kingdom retains certain unilateral rights under those agreements, he emphasised that any changes affecting authority, jurisdiction, or operational arrangements must be addressed through a multilateral process involving all relevant stakeholders.

Referring to his recent meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Erhürman said he presented in detail a four-point methodological framework for negotiations, explaining the reasoning behind each component. He also shared his views on confidence-building measures, suggesting that many of the practical issues between the two sides could be resolved in Nicosia if sufficient political will exists. In this context, he argued that leaders who cannot even reach agreement on relatively simple matters such as opening crossing points should not be expected to achieve a comprehensive settlement.

Erhürman reiterated that he is committed to a negotiated solution and that this stance reflects the will of the people he represents. He characterised his approach as based on principles that are not subject to bargaining, but rather serve as a structured pathway toward a meaningful negotiation process. He also noted that any issues requiring clarification with the Greek Cypriot side should be communicated openly and at an early stage, rather than postponed.

Addressing questions about the timing of potential negotiations, Erhürman said he is personally ready to begin talks at any time, including from the following day. However, he stressed that the key issue is not the timing of the start, but whether the negotiations are designed in a way that can realistically lead to a mutually acceptable solution. He added that negotiations that do not produce results risk becoming repetitive and unproductive.

He further commented on the absence of a new formal framework from Guterres, expressing the view that no new document has been officially shared with either side, including Christodoulides. In his assessment, discussions remain at a preliminary stage rather than having reached a structured negotiation phase.

On the issue of crossing points, Erhürman said that current discussions include proposals raised in New York, but warned that introducing additional crossing points without prior agreement could complicate already unresolved matters. He recalled that upon taking office, he was presented with a map indicating four potential crossing locations: Akincilar (Luricina), Haspolat, Kiracikoy, and Eylence. He highlighted Haspolat and Akincilar in particular as crossings that would serve the interests of both communities by facilitating movement and economic interaction.

Finally, Erhürman addressed ongoing discussions surrounding the Youth Technical Committee, attributing the controversy largely to communication shortcomings. He noted that there had been criticism regarding the method of its formation and stressed that any such bodies should be established on the basis of merit, balanced representation, and inclusivity. He underlined that no group should be excluded and that institutional processes should reflect fairness and broad participation.