**Title: Property Issue Can Only Be Resolved Through Sincerity, Says Turkish Cypriot Leader**
In a recent statement, Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman addressed the ongoing property disputes between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, emphasizing the need for sincerity in resolving these complex issues. Speaking on Saturday, Erhurman criticized the Greek Cypriot leadership for allegedly using legal mechanisms for political gain, particularly in matters related to property ownership.
Erhurman pointed out that the property issue is not solely a concern for Greek Cypriots but also significantly affects Turkish Cypriots. He argued that the resolution of this issue cannot be achieved through lawsuits initiated by either side, stating that such legal actions only complicate the broader political landscape of the Cyprus problem. “The property issue is impossible to resolve through lawsuits brought by Greek Cypriots against Turkish Cypriots or vice versa,” he remarked, highlighting the interconnectedness of property disputes with the wider political negotiations.
The Turkish Cypriot leader reiterated his administration's commitment to achieving a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus issue. He noted that the Turkish Cypriot side had established the Immovable Property Commission, which provides remedies such as restitution, exchange, and compensation for property disputes. This commission is intended to address property issues until a more extensive settlement can be reached.
Erhurman expressed concern over the misuse of legal frameworks to create political narratives or domestic success stories at the expense of individuals suffering from property disputes. He stated, “Attempts to use the law as a political instrument to build political positions or create domestic political ‘success stories’ through the hardship experienced by individuals could not be tolerated.” He called for genuine efforts focused on achieving a comprehensive settlement, which he believes would ultimately lead to a resolution of the property issue.
The Turkish Cypriot leader also emphasized that the losses incurred are not limited to Greek Cypriots. He asserted that the Turkish Cypriot community has never supported approaches that target individuals or exploit legal avenues for political leverage. “The north has never endorsed approaches that target individuals and use the law as an instrument of politics by making them bear the burden of the Cyprus problem,” he stated.
Furthermore, Erhurman warned against assumptions that the Turkish Cypriot side lacks the means to respond to legal challenges or that it would passively accept positions based on such misconceptions. He affirmed that the Turkish Cypriot administration would continue to support the efforts of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and would advance its preparations regarding the property issue until a settlement is achieved.
The statement comes in the wake of several high-profile cases concerning the illegal sale of Greek Cypriot property in the north, including the conviction of Israeli land developer Simon Aykut. Aykut was sentenced to five years in prison for multiple charges, including possession of stolen land and money laundering. This case has drawn attention to the ongoing challenges surrounding property rights and ownership in the divided island.
As discussions surrounding the property issue continue, Erhurman’s remarks underscore the complexities involved and the necessity for a sincere and collaborative approach from both sides to find a lasting resolution. The Turkish Cypriot leader's call for sincerity reflects a broader desire for dialogue and understanding in addressing the multifaceted challenges that have persisted in Cyprus for decades.