Dialogos

Erhurman Criticizes European Powers in Cyprus, Meets Turkish General

Published March 15, 2026, 17:01
Erhurman Criticizes European Powers in Cyprus, Meets Turkish General

Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman criticized the military alliances and agreements of the Republic of Cyprus, describing them as an unrealistic attempt to create a military counterbalance to Turkey. He argued that military activity on the island endangers security, including the Turkish Cypriot community, and negatively impacts tourism and the economy. Erhurman referred to foreign press reports portraying Cyprus as an unsafe destination due to the presence of military forces from various countries. He cited statements by former Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras regarding the Annan Plan, arguing that its implementation would have made it impossible for Greece to deploy military forces to the island. He emphasized Cyprus's vulnerable geographical location and the need to consider the will of the Turkish Cypriot side for achieving lasting peace and stability. Simultaneously, he met with the commander of the Turkish Land Forces, General Metin Tokel, expressing his satisfaction with the visit.