European Mediterranean leaders issued a firm statement to Turkey following the MED 9 summit in Paphos, ahead of an informal meeting scheduled for next Tuesday.
The summit’s announcement included strong references to the Cyprus issue and sent significant messages regarding the Middle East, urging all parties to act responsibly and refrain from further actions.
In the Paphos Declaration, heads of state and government from Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, Spain, and Portugal’s foreign minister specifically stated on the Cyprus issue:
“As this year marks the tragic 50th anniversary of the invasion and occupation, we reiterate our commitment to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem within the UN framework, based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as defined by relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and in line with EU principles and acquis.”
“The Cyprus problem is European. We emphasise that Turkey’s specific contribution to the swift resumption and successful conduct of negotiations remains crucial, constituting a key element for advancing EU-Turkey relations”.
The MED 9 leaders also stressed the importance of avoiding unilateral actions, including those violating the military status quo along ceasefire lines or in the buffer zone, to create a favourable environment for resuming negotiations.
They expressed support for the EU’s strategic interest in a stable and secure Eastern Mediterranean and for developing a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey, in accordance with established conditions.
Regarding the situation in the Middle East, the leaders, alongside King Abdullah II of Jordan, condemned “in the strongest terms the Iranian missile attack against Israel” and called on “all actors to act responsibly and refrain from further military action”.
The declaration also addressed irregular migration, describing it as a European challenge requiring a European response.
The leaders noted significant progress with the adoption of the European Pact on Asylum and Migration and prioritised its effective and timely implementation.
