Erhürman: "Being Confined to Sarayönü Has Cost Turkish Cypriots Dearly Over Four and a Half Years"

Speaking on Cyprus Genç TV with Hasan Erçakıca, Erhürman addressed pressing political issues, including the Bolu Kartalkaya tragedy, the upcoming presidential election, and Cyprus problem negotiations.

"We Are Deeply Saddened by the Kartalkaya Tragedy"

Erhürman began by expressing his condolences regarding the recent tragedy in Bolu Kartalkaya, stating, "We are all deeply saddened. It is neither easily explainable nor understandable. My heartfelt condolences go out to everyone affected."

"CTP Is Ready for the Presidential Election"

Erhürman emphasized that the CTP is fully prepared and focused on the presidential election. He stated, "For some time now, we have been advocating the concept of 'governing together,' not as mere propaganda but as a necessity. Given the current state of the country, no political party can claim they can handle the challenges alone without expert input."

Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Erhürman added, "If the CTP comes to power, either in government or the presidency, we will govern together. This approach is not a luxury but a necessity. There is no room for exclusion."

"Correct Foundations for Relations with Turkey"

Regarding relations with Turkey, Erhürman stressed the need for dialogue built on mutual respect. "Relations with Turkey must be based on the right foundations to be meaningful. We should not talk to Turkey, nor should Turkey talk to us; rather, we must engage in dialogue with each other," he said.

He underscored the importance of political equality, stating that both AKEL and DISY in the Greek Cypriot community share similar perspectives on this issue.

"Cyprus Problem Is an International Issue"

Erhürman reiterated that the Cyprus issue is not merely an intercommunal matter but an international one. Referring to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s recent statements, he said, "Minister Fidan’s approach regarding Turkey’s EU accession process reflects a clear vision. His statements do not suggest a distancing from Europe, and the Cyprus problem must also be viewed within this broader international context."

"Unique Federations for Unique Regions"

Discussing possible solutions to the Cyprus problem, Erhürman emphasized that no two federations in the world are identical, citing examples such as Switzerland, the United States, and Russia. He called for sustainable cooperation between Turkish and Greek Cypriots on critical issues such as maritime zones, energy, and trade routes, stressing the need for mechanisms to ensure joint decision-making.

Erhürman concluded by reiterating the need for stability and peace in the region, stating, "Policies that exclude Turkish Cypriots and Turkey cannot create lasting peace. The entire region must seek peace, as instability inevitably impacts us all."