Brussels: Cypriot Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are urging the European Union to change its stance on Turkey, which is currently regarded as a strategic partner by EU institutions. They argue that the EU must utilize this opportunity to strengthen European defense and security, an area from which Turkey seeks to benefit.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Cypriot MEPs expressed their positions in response to inquiries about Turkey’s recent progress report. They emphasized the need for the European Parliament to intensify efforts to promote peace, stability, and security in Cyprus. Loucas Fourlas, an MEP from the European People’s Party and Democratic Rally, stated that the discussion surrounding Turkey’s situation is essential not only for respecting EU values but also for the sovereignty of Cyprus. He criticized Turkey for violating international law, occupying European territory, and maintaining a military presence in Cyprus.
Fourlas insisted that the European Parliament should use every available institutional mechanism to increase pressure on Ankara. This involves sending clear messages in the progress report and implementing a strategy of accountability that includes conditions for progress and sanctions for deviations. He also highlighted the importance of Cyprus using its institutional voice, in collaboration with other concerned countries, to resolve the Cyprus issue based on international law and UN resolutions.
Michalis Hadjipantela, another MEP from the EPP and Democratic Rally, echoed the call for pressure on Turkey to fulfill its international obligations. He noted that Turkey’s ongoing occupation of Cyprus and its violations of international law are obstacles to its EU accession process. According to Hadjipantela, Cyprus should leverage European defense and security advancements to its benefit, while the EU must link any progress with Turkey to respect for international law and human rights.
Giorgos Georgiou, from the European United Left/Nordic Green Left (GUE/NGL) and AKEL, pointed out the efforts made during the recent debate on Turkey’s accession report. He ensured the inclusion of Cyprus-related obligations in the report, emphasizing the need to reject a two-state solution and address the fate of missing persons. Georgiou criticized the EU institutions for treating Turkey as a strategic partner, granting privileges without obligations, and stressed the importance of not basing European security on a country that occupies European territory.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive. The latest negotiations, held in 2017, ended without agreement. The UN Secretary-General has announced plans for an informal meeting on Cyprus, aiming to reengage the parties involved.
The appointment of Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus and the recent appointment of Johannes Hahn as the Commission President’s Special Envoy reflect ongoing efforts to address the Cyprus issue. These developments are part of a broader strategy to support UN-led efforts for the reunification of Cyprus.