Erhürman: We will defend the sovereignty of Turkish Cypriots and discuss everything with Turkey after October 19

Presidential candidate Tufan Erhürman stated during a special pre-election broadcast that after October 19 he will perform the duties of head of state, maintain neutrality, and consistently defend the sovereignty of Turkish Cypriots. The broadcast was moderated by Mustafa Alkan, and several journalists participated in the discussion.

Erhürman emphasized that negotiation processes on Cyprus have always been coordinated with the Turkish Republic and intends to maintain this practice. He promised to "secure" the share of sovereignty for Turkish Cypriots and stated that the current situation, where decisions on security and resources are effectively made by the southern leadership (including President Christodoulides), is unacceptable.

The candidate also noted that he proposes relying on the UN framework and the four points put forward by his team; if the Greek leadership on Cyprus does not accept these provisions, according to him, the UN framework will be questioned. Erhürman criticized the past five years as "lost": trust-building measures were not implemented, the Republic’s Security Council did not convene, issues arose regarding the rights of children in mixed marriages, and problems occurred with archaeological excavations in the north.

For residents of the North, this means: increased coordination of the president with Turkey on negotiations, attention to security and trade restrictions (including trade along the Green Line and direct flights). Residents affected by issues of citizenship of children in mixed marriages and property disputes should monitor further initiatives by the new administration.