**Erhurman Emphasizes Confidence-Building Measures at Meeting with EU Envoy Fitto**
Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman highlighted the urgent need for confidence-building measures during his inaugural meeting with Raffaele Fitto, the European Commission’s envoy for the Cyprus problem, on Friday. This meeting marks a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue regarding the relationship between the Turkish Cypriot community and the European Union, as well as the broader context of intercommunal relations on the island.
Following the meeting, Erhurman expressed concerns about what he described as "recent unilateral and biased attitudes" from EU institutions, particularly referencing a resolution passed by the European Parliament earlier this month. This resolution addressed the sexual violence experienced by Cypriot women during Turkey's military intervention in Cyprus in 1974, which has been a contentious issue in the island's history. Erhurman argued that such actions have further eroded trust between the Turkish Cypriots and the EU.
In his statements, Erhurman made it clear that confidence-building measures are essential not only in fostering better relations between the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities but also in improving the Turkish Cypriot community's relationship with the EU. He noted, "We need confidence-building measures, not only with the Greek Cypriot leadership, but also with the EU."
Erhurman elaborated on the potential role of the EU in facilitating these measures, suggesting that while the EU cannot directly mediate in the negotiations due to the Republic of Cyprus's membership, it can still play a constructive role. "The EU could contribute positively to confidence-building measures related to the EU if it wishes to contribute to a fair and lasting solution on the island," he stated.
The Turkish Cypriot leader also raised specific issues during the meeting, including the implementation of the long-awaited direct trade regulation. This regulation, proposed in July 2004, aims to allow Turkish Cypriot goods, certified by the Turkish Cypriot chamber of commerce, to be exported directly to Europe and receive preferential treatment within the European single market. Erhurman emphasized the need to implement this regulation without further delay, as it is seen as a crucial step toward alleviating the isolation of the Turkish Cypriots.
Additionally, Erhurman discussed the challenges associated with the Green Line regulation and the ongoing difficulties regarding EU citizenship and property issues for Turkish Cypriots. He reiterated the importance of addressing these obstacles to enable Turkish Cypriots, particularly the younger generation, to integrate more fully into the international community.
In previous statements, Erhurman has made it clear that the EU's role in negotiations should not be misconstrued as mediating between the two communities. He stated, "Can the European Union support the process in a positive way through its own decision-making mechanisms? The answer is yes, and it should." However, he cautioned against any expectation that the EU could act as a mediator, labeling such a notion as "absolutely impossible" for both the Turkish Cypriots and Turkey.
The meeting with Fitto represents a critical opportunity for dialogue at a time when the relationship between the Turkish Cypriot community and the EU is under scrutiny. Erhurman's emphasis on confidence-building measures reflects a broader desire for constructive engagement and a resolution to longstanding issues on the island.
As discussions continue, the focus remains on how both sides can work towards fostering trust and cooperation, not only to improve intercommunal relations but also to enhance the Turkish Cypriot community's standing within the EU framework.