Erhürman: 5+1 Talks Must Be Properly Prepared

Erhürman said UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Cyprus María Angela Holguín Cuéllar is currently engaged in work that goes beyond confidence-building measures (CBMs) and also touches on the core substance of the Cyprus issue, although he added that it is “too early” to assess where this effort will lead.

He described his meeting with Holguín as “sincere, useful and productive.”

Speaking on BRT’s Siyaset Noktası programme, Erhürman said discussions reflected long-anticipated preparatory work for a new initiative expected around late June or early July.

He recalled that the process is envisaged in three stages: first, achieving meaningful progress in CBMs in Nicosia; second, defining a framework and methodology before formal negotiations begin; and third, moving into comprehensive talks.

Erhürman said he had the opportunity to discuss the first two stages with Holguín, noting that she is working within a broader effort led in coordination with UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

He added that further meetings with leaders are expected on Saturday, saying the recent discussions also included elements of the emerging roadmap.

“We Want The 5+1 To Produce Meaningful Results”

Erhürman stressed that the 5+1 format must yield meaningful outcomes, adding that this depends on proper preparatory work.

He said that if preparations extend to July or even August, that would still be acceptable, while noting that if the groundwork is not ready, the process could even be delayed to September.

“It is not possible to give a fixed date at this stage. What matters is being fully prepared so that meaningful results can emerge,” he said.

“Today’s Meeting Was Sincere, Useful And Productive”

Erhürman reiterated that Holguín’s current work is not limited to CBMs but also addresses substantive aspects of the Cyprus issue, while cautioning that it is too early to determine the direction of the process.

He said he preferred to listen and ask questions during the meeting and again described the talks as “sincere, useful and productive.”

On CBMs, Erhürman said progress has been made in some areas but not yet to the desired level, expressing hope that the process could pave the way for a 5+1 meeting in late July or early August.

He also noted that no bilateral leader-level meeting is currently scheduled, though one could be arranged.

“Joint Decisions On Key Issues Are Unavoidable”

Erhürman said a Cyprus settlement is the only viable path to lasting regional stability and peace, stressing that certain issues on the island require joint decision-making, particularly security, energy and hydrocarbons.

“I Have No Intention Of Scoring Or Conceding Goals”

Responding to political remarks, Erhürman said political language framed around “scoring goals” was inappropriate.

“I do not act with the aim of scoring goals against anyone, nor do I fear conceding goals. In politics, either society is affected, or you as a politician are,” he said.

Comments On Appointments

On recent public sector appointments, Erhürman said his assessment criteria are based on legality and suitability for institutional needs, not political timing.

He also welcomed the appointment of an archaeologist from within the department to the Antiquities Department, calling it a positive development.