Senior Turkish Cypriot officials have strongly criticized a recent agreement between the Republic of Cyprus and Lebanon. They argue that the deal ignores their community and harms the possibility of a future unified government for the island. The criticism, expressed by well-known politician Tufan Erhurman, highlights the ongoing disagreement over who should represent Cyprus internationally. This issue remains at the heart of the island's long-standing division.
Erhurman used social media to condemn the agreement. He said it is another example of the Greek Cypriot leadership making decisions for the entire island without consulting them. He stated that it is unfair and unhelpful to expect Turkish Cypriots to remain isolated from the world while waiting for a solution. He also insisted that such one-sided actions do not create stability or peace. He described Turkish Cypriots as one of the "two equal owners" of the island. In response, Erhurman plans to contact international groups, including the European Union, to make sure their position is understood. This decision has itself been criticized by Greek Cypriot media.
This conflict is connected to the division of Cyprus, which has been split since 1974. The southern part, the Republic of Cyprus, is recognized by most of the world. The northern part, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), is only recognized by Turkey. A major problem in reunification discussions is deciding how each community can make international agreements. From the Turkish Cypriot point of view, any deal made by the Republic of Cyprus that affects the north—like maritime or economic agreements—is invalid without their approval.
At the same time, a separate internal issue arose, showing the political sensitivity around the TRNC's international relationships. The Deputy Prime Minister, Fikri Ataoğlu, had to explain comments he made about property investment. After suggesting a preference for buyers from Turkey, he later clarified his position. He stated that the government is not against foreigners buying property or investing. He emphasized that the main goal is to build a strong center for tourism and investment that is open to sustainable international money.
Together, these events show a community dealing with a complicated political situation. Erhurman talks about a "new era" where Turkish Cypriots will actively work for a solution based on political equality. Meanwhile, the TRNC government must manage its close relationship with Turkey while also trying to connect with the wider world. The agreement with Lebanon is therefore not just a single event, but a sign of the deeper, ongoing problems that define the island's political reality.