Tufan Erhürman, recently elected President of Northern Cyprus in October, addressed a group of journalists from Türkiye, discussing his administration's priorities. Erhürman affirmed that there are no issues in relations with Türkiye. He responded to comments made by Devlet Bahçeli, Chairman of Türkiye's Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), who had called for the election's annulment and Northern Cyprus's annexation to Türkiye after Erhürman secured 63% of the vote.

“I have never preferred to speak to Ankara from here, or for Ankara to speak to us from here. I believe our communication should be maintained through dialogue, not mutual monologues,” Erhürman stated. He also addressed the increasing circulation of black money and the rising number of casinos in Northern Cyprus. “One of our biggest problems is the unregistered economy, in all its forms. But my claim of a ‘new era’ is not solely about taxation. This country needs a new era motto for its internal affairs as much as for its foreign relations,” he explained.

Erhürman acknowledged the negative perception, stating, “When viewed from Türkiye, this place has recently been associated more with casinos, the mafia, nightclubs, and black money. Yes, we have problems in these areas, but the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot people are not solely defined by these.” He noted that the status of the 33 operational casinos across the country would not change, emphasizing that the state generates revenue from "casino tourism" but, like other sectors, this industry also has a saturation point.

Regarding foreign policy, Erhürman recounted his meeting with Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Greek Cypriot Administration. He mentioned that United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had requested a “positive atmosphere” to be created as they move towards a resolution. The next meeting between the two leaders is scheduled for December 11. Addressing concerns about potential "dual leadership" given his past role as Chairman of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) and his current work with a coalition government, Erhürman dismissed the idea. “My character is not suited for that. I am in constant contact with the Prime Minister and every minister in the government. I will say what I always say publicly, and they already know it to be true: I will not adopt an approach that competes with the government,” he affirmed. Parliamentary elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus are anticipated in January 2027.

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