Tufan Erhurman attends Organization of Turkic States summit in Kazakhstan

Tufan Erhurman, a Turkish Cypriot leader, attended an informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States held on Friday in Turkistan, Kazakhstan. The event was attended by the leaders of Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan, among others. During his address, Erhurman emphasized a commitment to finding a solution to the Cyprus problem and criticized the long-standing international isolation of Turkish Cypriots. He cited the 2004 Annan plan referendum as proof of Turkish Cypriot willingness for reconciliation, noting that the plan was approved by Turkish Cypriots but rejected by Greek Cypriots. Erhurman called for an end to restrictions on trade, sports, and science, highlighting diplomacy and dialogue as his core priorities. Additionally, he expressed interest in strengthening cooperation within the organization regarding academic exchanges, technology, and artificial intelligence. He pointed to post-referendum statements from the European Council and the United Nations as evidence of international promises to end Turkish Cypriot isolation.