Erhürman: "Expectations from Geneva Talks Are Low"

Speaking ahead of the informal meeting, Erhürman noted that President Ersin Tatar does not appear to have any new proposals, while Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides has yet to provide clear details on any concrete suggestions.

He emphasized that no tangible steps had been taken in key areas such as security and energy prior to the talks. Despite the importance of the Geneva meeting for achieving lasting peace and stability in Cyprus and the region, Erhürman expressed skepticism about its potential outcomes under the current circumstances.

"We Do Not Know What Christodoulides’ ‘Concrete Proposals’ Are"

Erhürman criticized the Greek Cypriot leader's approach, stating:
"Christodoulides claims that this meeting is happening thanks to his efforts and has mentioned bringing ‘concrete proposals’ to the table. However, we have no idea what these proposals entail. If the meeting follows the 5+1 format, his proposals must go beyond merely continuing from where we left off in Crans-Montana. They must reflect an awareness of regional and global developments."

He underlined that security remains a top priority for the European Union, pointing out that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has been delivering key messages to the EU on this matter. In contrast, Erhürman noted that Christodoulides has openly called for Turkey's exclusion from European security discussions.

Energy and Political Equality Also Key Issues

Regarding energy, Erhürman highlighted the stalled "Great Sea Interconnector" project linking Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. He argued that excluding Turkish Cypriots and Turkey from regional energy projects runs counter to both economic logic and the goal of lasting stability.

Additionally, he criticized the lack of clarity on political equality, stating that Christodoulides has yet to put forward concrete proposals ensuring rotating presidency and decision-making mechanisms that require at least one Turkish Cypriot’s affirmative vote in federal bodies.

"A New Approach Is Necessary"

Erhürman stressed that for the Geneva meeting to yield positive results, the approach must differ from past failed negotiations. He noted:
"If progress is to be made, it must be based on a new approach that recognizes the realities of the region, Europe, and the world—rather than merely repeating the same arguments before the UN Secretary-General and the three guarantor states."

He also criticized the inefficiency of the current negotiation framework, pointing out that even minor issues—such as the opening of a crossing point in Haspolat—are being left to a 5+1 format discussion.

"We Will Be There, But Expectations Are Low"

While expressing doubts about the talks, Erhürman reaffirmed CTP’s commitment to supporting any initiatives that prioritize rationality, peace, and stability in Cyprus and the wider region. He concluded:
"We will be there. If there are efforts towards a solution, lasting peace, and stability in Cyprus and the region, we will do everything we can to contribute."