Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said Friday that the Cyprus issue is a European problem requiring EU involvement, commenting on the European Commission’s latest progress report on Turkey.
The annual report, released on October 30, reflects “the EU’s emphasis on continuing and progressing Cyprus settlement talks,” Letymbiotis said.
He highlighted the report’s new element referring to “gradual, proportional and reversible engagement with Turkey,” aligning with April 2024 European Council conclusions.
The report notes Turkey’s constructive approach is essential for progress and emphasises the importance of resuming Cyprus negotiations for strengthening EU-Turkey relations.
It criticises Turkey’s failure to meet Cyprus-related obligations and its actions regarding Varosha, which created new facts on the ground despite international condemnation.
“The EU reaffirms its commitment to a comprehensive settlement within the UN framework,” Letymbiotis said, noting the report’s criticism of Turkey’s promotion of a two-state solution.
He added that the EU recognises only the Republic of Cyprus, in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
EU High Representative Josep Borrell expressed hope that Turkey would actively support negotiations for a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement within the UN framework, according to Letymbiotis.
Borrell also indicated Brussels’ readiness to play an active role in supporting all stages of negotiations.
“Cyprus is Europe and Europe is Cyprus,” Letymbiotis concluded, emphasising that as a European problem, the Cyprus issue requires decisive EU involvement.
(information from CNA)
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