Brussels: MEPs condemned Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan’s illegal visit to the northern, Turkish-occupied part of Cyprus last weekend, as well as his statement in favor of a two-state solution for the island, during a European Parliament plenary session on Wednesday evening. Michael McGrath, the Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, reiterated that the EU will never accept a “two-state” solution for Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the European Parliament’s plenary discussed Erdogan’s visit following an initiative by ELAM and the European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) MEP Geadis Geadi. McGrath addressed the plenary, emphasizing that Erdogan’s advocacy for a two-state solution contradicts the UN-led process and resolutions, which propose a bicommunal, bizonal federation. He stressed the EU’s support for a process that aims for the two communities on the island to agree on a solution for coexistence.
McGrath highlighted the ongoing division of Cyprus, an EU member state, emphasizing its implications for the people of Cyprus. He assured that the Cyprus issue remains a focal point for the EU, with leaders and Council Conclusions, including the latest in April 2024, underscoring its importance. The Commissioner reaffirmed the EU’s clear stance on the Cyprus issue, backing the UN-led process and aligning with relevant UN resolutions and EU principles.
He noted that Turkey’s constructive approach to the Cyprus issue is key for advancing the EU-Turkey agenda, as outlined in the European Council conclusions of April 2024. McGrath also welcomed the re-appointment of the personal envoy of the UN Secretary-General, praising her prior work and emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation. He concluded by stressing that the people of Cyprus, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, must find solutions to their common challenges.
Several MEPs expressed strong reactions to Erdogan’s visit. Cypriot MEP Loucas Fourlas called for action against Turkey’s provocations, while Costas Mavrides criticized Erdogan’s dismissive attitude towards Cyprus’s cultural heritage and sovereignty. Greek MEP Afroditi Latinopoulou highlighted the EU’s perceived double standards in its responses to international conflicts. Meanwhile, German MEP ?ai Tegethoff and Spanish MEP Irene Montero emphasized the need for a peaceful, unified Cyprus and adherence to international law.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated UN-led peace talks, no resolution has been achieved due to Turkish intransigence. An informal meeting on Cyprus is scheduled for the end of July, as announced by the UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres, following a previous meeting in Geneva in March. The recent appointment of Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar as the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Cyprus aims to reengage the parties and advise on next steps for the Cyprus issue.