Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman has called on Turkic states to strengthen their relations with Turkish Cypriots, while pledging to continue efforts towards a fair and lasting settlement in Cyprus in close cooperation with Turkey.
Speaking at the 13th Summit of the Organisation of Turkic States in Ankara, Erhürman argued that greater international engagement for Turkish Cypriots and efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem were complementary rather than competing objectives.
He said the Turkish Cypriot side would continue working “in close consultation and cooperation with the Republic of Turkey for a fair and permanent solution on the island”.
Erhürman cites alleged isolation of Turkish Cypriots
Erhürman said Turkish Cypriots had faced what he described as “unjust isolation” for years, limiting their international contacts and economic and social development.
He referred to a letter from UN Secretary-General António Guterres dated October 16, 2026, claiming it expressed concern about actions affecting Turkish Cypriots’ cultural, sporting, political and diplomatic activities.
He also cited a European Commission letter dated October 6, saying it reaffirmed the EU’s objective, dating back to 2004, of ending the isolation of Turkish Cypriots.
Erhürman argued that the two letters provided a political and legal basis for expanding contacts, dialogue and cooperation with Turkish Cypriots across different sectors.
Calls for cooperation in education, trade and technology
The Turkish Cypriot leader said there were opportunities to develop closer relations with Turkic states in scientific research, academia, culture, sport, business, technology and diplomacy.
His proposals included joint university research projects, youth exchanges, sporting and cultural events, and greater cooperation in trade and investment.
He also suggested expanding collaboration in digital technology, describing the Turkish Cypriot side as a potential economic, scientific and cultural bridge between the Turkic world and the Eastern Mediterranean.
The breakaway north has held observer status at the Organisation of Turkic States since 2022. Erhürman said he wanted to develop relations further with its member countries.
Erhürman calls for peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean
Erhürman said closer cooperation should contribute to peace and stability in Cyprus and the wider region.
He called for the Eastern Mediterranean to become a region characterised by mutual respect, inclusive cooperation and shared prosperity rather than tensions and political exclusion.
He also thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for the invitation and hospitality, and congratulated Turkey on the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the republic.
Erhürman was expected to return to the Turkish-controlled north of Cyprus on Friday afternoon following his meetings in Ankara.
Also read: Cyprus rejects Turkey-Libya maritime deal at UN Security Council
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