Erhürman criticized statements on negotiation format: “We are at the discussion table, not a propaganda table”

The Turkish Cypriot leader criticized recent statements by Cyprus government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis regarding the format of the negotiation process on the island.

The catalyst was Letymbiotis's remark that President Nikos Christodoulides participates in the talks both as the head of the Republic of Cyprus and as the representative of the Greek Cypriot community. Erhürman responded by stating that "everyone knows: there are two leaders at the table," and all relevant UN documents and reports are publicly available.

In a social media post published on Labor Day, Erhürman emphasized that the current format should be called a "discussion table" rather than "negotiations." According to him, both sides maintain their positions outside the negotiation process, while the principle of confidentiality applies within it.

He expressed bewilderment that despite the "clarity of facts," such statements continue to be repeated in the public space. In his view, this does not contribute to finding a solution and has no practical merit.

Erhürman also noted that provocative statements can only have an effect if there is a counter-reaction, and emphasized that the Turkish Cypriot side maintains "patience, calmness, and seriousness" in the dialogue.

Furthermore, he stated that he reacts to only some of the opponents' remarks and urged not to bring contentious issues into public statements and official events. According to him, this only "pollutes the atmosphere" and hinders constructive dialogue.

The situation surrounding the negotiation process remains tense, as sides continue to exchange statements, highlighting differences in the interpretation of the current interaction format.