Erhürman: Guterres' Visit Is Neither a Farewell Nor a Breakthrough

Speaking to KIBRIS TV, Erhürman discussed the Cyprus issue, energy cooperation, property disputes, relations with the European Union and his work with the government.

Commenting on Guterres' visit, Erhürman said it would only be meaningful if it helped establish a new framework for confidence-building measures and a methodology for future negotiations.

"I will not negotiate simply for the sake of negotiations, nor attend a 5+1 meeting just for the sake of holding one," he said.

Erhürman said opening new crossing points, resolving citizenship issues affecting children of mixed marriages and promoting joint initiatives in sports could help build trust between the two communities before comprehensive negotiations resume.

He argued that discussions on the Cyprus issue should focus on the substance of a settlement model rather than its name.

"It is not what you call it, but how you shape its content that matters," Erhürman said, adding that the Turkish Cypriot people would not relinquish their rights over maritime jurisdictions, energy resources, hydrocarbon reserves or the island's other natural wealth.

He also highlighted the potential for cooperation in the energy sector, saying natural gas, water and environmental issues offered opportunities for joint action if the Greek Cypriot side was willing to engage.

Addressing property disputes, Erhürman claimed the Greek Cypriot leadership had turned individual property claims from a legal matter into a political tool. He described the Immovable Property Commission as an important mechanism under international law and said diplomatic and legal efforts on the issue were continuing.

On relations with the European Union, Erhürman said Turkish Cypriots' confidence in EU institutions had been damaged in recent years. He argued that implementing the Direct Trade Regulation, resolving the rights of children born to mixed marriages and removing obstacles under the Green Line Regulation would be important steps toward rebuilding trust.

Commenting on his relations with the government, Erhürman said he acted within the framework of his constitutional responsibilities and stressed that problems should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than confrontation.