The leader of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) Tufan Erhürman, has called on the European Union to clearly recognize the existence and rights of Turkish Cypriots.
His remarks came during a panel discussion organized by the European Parliament’s Cyprus Office in celebration of Europe Day.
Speaking at the event, Erhürman stressed that the EU could play a constructive and catalytic role in efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue. However, he emphasized that this would only be possible if certain fundamental principles were acknowledged.
“I believe it is necessary to begin with some basic assumptions,” he said, outlining key expectations for the EU’s involvement.
Central to these assumptions, Erhürman noted, is the EU’s explicit recognition of the Turkish Cypriot community’s existence and rights.
Addressing the long-standing property issue on the island, he pointed to the Annan Plan as a missed opportunity, stating:
“The Annan Plan included provisions on property. Had it been accepted, a large part of today’s property-related disputes would have already been resolved.”
( Source: BRT News)
