Borrell urges Turkey to recognize EU’s role in Cyprus problem

"It is important for Turkey to understand the role of the European Union with respect to the position of a member state, Cyprus, which has a difficult relationship with Turkey," EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Josep Borrell said on his arrival at the informal meeting of foreign affairs ministers in Brussels on Thursday.

Referring to the presence of the Turkish Foreign Minister at the working lunch of the informal meeting, Borrell underlined its importance as it is the first time this has been done for a long time, and thanked those who allowed the invitation to be sent.

Borrell stressed the importance for Turkey to understand the role of the EU in relation to Cyprus. "But we believe that the best way to resolve this situation is by dialogue. And I thank all those who allow this decision to be taken and the Turkish Minister to be invited," he added.

"Here we have bilateral talks with some of the ministers and I hope that this conversation will be important, positive to deal with the issues that we have in the EU and some member states with respect to Turkey," he noted.

"This is a good initiative. Everything can be solved through dialogue and goodwill. But in order to have dialogue, people have to have the opportunity to discuss. And I think this is very good news that the Turkish Minister was able to be with us during this meeting," he concluded.