The EU’s Special Representative for Cyprus, Raffaele Fitto, called for Turkey’s constructive engagement in the resumption of Cyprus settlement talks on Thursday, noting this was in the EU’s strategic interest.
During a European Parliament debate where Turkish provocations in the Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean came under heavy criticism from several MEPs, Commission Executive Vice-President Fitto linked advancements in EU-Turkish relations with “sustainable de-escalation” in Greco-Turkish relations and, overall, in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Key partner
In his opening speech, Fitto said the Commission attaches great importance to Greco-Turkish relations and the general situation in the region. He described Turkey as a “key partner” of the EU, highlighting important cooperation on security, migration, connectivity and developments in Ukraine, the Black Sea, South Caucasus and Central Asia.
“We have a strategic interest to further pursue ongoing engagement with the country and keep it anchored with the EU,” said Fitto.
Renewed tensions
At the same time, he acknowledged the significant challenges posed through recent developments and renewed tensions in the region.
Turkey must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all EU member states in accordance with EU and international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), he said.
“Let me be clear. Sustainable de-escalation in Greece-Turkish relations and overall, in the East Mediterranean area are essential elements for regional security and stability and the advancements of EU-Turkish relations in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner,” he said.
Peace talks in EU’s strategic interest
On Cyprus, he said the EU attached particular importance to the resumption of peace talks and Turkey’s constructive engagement in that regard.
“This is in the strategic interest of the EU,” said the Special Representative.
“We must not forget that the whole island of Cyprus is part of the EU and that Turkish Cypriots are EU citizens,” he added.
EU stands by Cyprus and Greece
The Commission VP said Greco-Turkish differences should be addressed through good faith dialogue, restraint, respect for international law and good neighbourly relations.
Fitto said the EU remains committed to defending its interests and those of both of its member states as well as to upholding regional stability.
“We will continue holding our ground, standing without doubt with Greece and Cyprus in this regard.”
Negotiators meet
Meanwhile, the two Cypriot negotiators will meet on Friday afternoon to prepare the ground ahead of next Tuesday’s leaders’ meeting, the first since both returned from New York last month.
