Erhürman: We Only Want the UN to Stand by Its Own Words

Addressing the ongoing debate over federalism, Erhürman pointed out that the Turkish Cypriot leadership has historically supported a flexible federation, pushing for a model closer to a confederation. He stressed that federalism, which exists in various forms worldwide, offers flexibility that could be tailored to Cyprus’ needs.

Erhürman responded to remarks by UBP Secretary-General Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu, who questioned the CTP's commitment to the federation model despite their adherence to UN resolutions. Erhürman stated, "This is not the first time this topic has been raised. It’s a simple issue that everyone who thinks logically can understand," and reinforced that while Hasipoğlu and his party may oppose the federal model, the UN's decisions still govern negotiations. He further emphasized that the UN Security Council (UNSC) decisions are binding for all UN personnel, including the Secretary-General.

"The UN's decisions are non-negotiable," Erhürman explained. "However, if you choose to sit at a table under the UN framework, you must accept that the UNSC's decisions will guide the process."

Erhürman also criticized the inconsistency in the views of the Greek Cypriot side, pointing out that while they have attempted to steer the federation model towards a unitary state, the Turkish side has always advocated for a decentralized federation, closer to a confederation. He underlined that this model has been outlined in previous negotiations such as the Annan Plan, which envisioned a two-state system.

On the topic of the upcoming informal talks, Erhürman reiterated that the UN's decisions remain unchanged unless all five permanent members of the UNSC agree to amend them, which he considers highly unlikely. "Each federation is unique and flexible in its own way," he noted.

Erhürman also laid out the CTP's four key demands for future talks: political equality will not be a subject of negotiation, a clear timeline must be established, talks will be results-oriented, and previously agreed issues will not be revisited. He stressed that these are not preconditions but rather a request for the UN to stand by its own words.

Lastly, Erhürman critiqued the current government's handling of internal matters, accusing them of being unconcerned and self-interested, highlighting the delay in electing the Speaker of Parliament. He concluded by stating that the most fundamental task for the Turkish Cypriot people is to break free from this mentality.