Nicosia:Cyprus' House of Representatives has approved a resolution criticizing the illegal memorandum between Turkey and Libya. The resolution urges the immediate implementation of European measures against Turkey.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the resolution was introduced by Nikolas Papadopoulos and Christiana Erotokritou from the Democratic Party (DIKO). House President Annita Demetriou emphasized the importance of the resolution as a demonstration of unity and resolve. The resolution condemns Libya's House of Representatives for ratifying the memorandum, asserting it violates the Law of the Sea and disregards the sovereign rights of other nations.
The resolution calls on the European Union to impose specific, proportionate, and effective sanctions against Turkey, in alignment with European and international law. It highlights the need for strengthening existing European sanctions, including potential measures against individuals and entities involved in unauthorized drilling activities.
Cyprus' House of Representatives also urges the EU to consider imposing economic sanctions on individuals and companies involved in illegal maritime activities, which may include asset freezes and travel restrictions. Furthermore, it calls for a review of EU-Turkey relations, linking economic cooperation to compliance with international law and sovereignty.
In addition, the resolution suggests targeted sanctions against Libyan entities associated with the Turkey-Libya memorandum and a reassessment of EU-Libya cooperation. It also proposes suspending European funding to Turkish state entities involved in legal violations.
The House calls on the European Council to establish a framework for escalating measures, including sanctions, in response to any further illegal Turkish activities in the Eastern Mediterranean. The resolution stresses the EU's role as a guarantor of legality and urges Cyprus' Government to coordinate with Greece and other EU nations to address the issue in EU councils.
The resolution will be forwarded to key EU leaders and institutions, as well as national parliaments and Cyprus' government, to ensure comprehensive attention and action.