Erhürman: Varosha Could Become a 'Game Changer' if No Comprehensive Cyprus Settlement Is in Sight

Speaking to Haber Kıbrıs, Erhürman said that during periods when there is a genuine prospect of a comprehensive settlement, Varosha should remain part of the overall solution. However, if the comprehensive settlement process is indefinitely postponed, the area could be brought into play as a strategic instrument.

Referring to the Crans-Montana talks and the new roadmap put forward by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Erhürman said his position on Varosha has remained unchanged whenever there is a realistic chance of progress.

"If we are in a period where there is a possibility of achieving something, then yes, I say very clearly that Varosha is part of a comprehensive settlement," he said, adding that the parties are now waiting to see how the UN-led process develops.

'If comprehensive settlement is indefinitely postponed...'

Erhürman said the situation changes if hopes for a comprehensive settlement effectively disappear.

"What I have always said is this: if such a period no longer exists, if everything has died and the prospect of a comprehensive settlement has been postponed indefinitely, then Varosha can be brought into play as a game changer for the Turkish Cypriot side," he said.

'The formula can be debated'

Recalling the previous Varosha opening initiative, Erhürman noted that authorities had already acknowledged the rights of former property owners.

He said the method to be followed regarding Varosha should be discussed in detail, adding that "the formula can be debated."

'Varosha is not as simple as it appears'

Erhürman stressed that Varosha is not an issue that can be addressed in isolation, saying it involves property rights, territorial adjustments, governance and power-sharing.

He added that how the area should be handled would depend on political decisions, suggesting that various options — including a formula compatible with international law or a framework negotiated with the United Nations — could be considered. However, he emphasised that such alternatives would only be relevant during periods when no meaningful comprehensive settlement process is underway.