Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman has stressed the need to continue dialogue and diplomatic efforts on the Cyprus issue, saying his goal is to convince President Nikos Christodoulides of the need for a settlement.
Speaking on a Turkish Cypriot television programme, Erhurman said efforts to restart the Cyprus process should focus on achieving tangible results.
“Our wish is for the Greek Cypriot leader, Nikos Christodoulides, to be convinced about a solution,” he said.
Erhurman added that efforts should extend beyond contacts between the two leaders and include engagement with the European Union, the United Nations and diplomatic circles.
“We must continue dialogue and diplomacy without interruption. What matters to me is achieving a result.”
Mixed-marriage children issue
Erhurman also focused on the issue of children born to mixed marriages who face difficulties obtaining Cypriot identity cards and citizenship.
He described the matter as a human rights issue and said it has been referenced in UN and EU reports because of concerns over discrimination.
According to Erhurman, the issue formed part of the seven confidence-building measures he presented during the visit of UN Secretary-General António Guterres to Cyprus.
He said international pressure has already produced some results, with certain applicants having received Cypriot identity cards.
“Not all applicants have received IDs, but some have started obtaining them because pressure is being applied in the right direction.”
Case filed at ECHR
Erhurman also revealed that a case concerning citizenship applications by children of mixed marriages has been registered before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and assigned a case number.
He said the court is expected to proceed to an examination of the substance of the case, although its eventual outcome remains uncertain.
“We have no doubt that these children should receive the rights they are entitled to.”
He added that efforts at both the UN and EU levels will continue.
Entry bans to Turkey
The Turkish Cypriot leader also referred to difficulties faced by some Turkish Cypriots who remain subject to entry bans imposed by Turkey under the N-82 and G-82 codes.
He said restrictions had been lifted for some individuals after he took office, but others continue to face the same problem.
“We will continue trying,” he said.
Reviewing his term
Reflecting on his time in office, Erhurman said a press conference is being planned to present the work carried out since the 6 December elections.
“We try to do everything within our power, but the judgment belongs to the people.”
