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The European Union has expressed optimism that recent diplomatic engagement could help revive efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue, following talks between senior EU officials and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met Erdoğan in Ankara on Wednesday evening after attending the NATO Summit. In a joint statement released after the meeting, the two EU leaders said the current opportunity should be used to advance negotiations through the United Nations framework.
"The renewed momentum should be used to promote a settlement of the Cyprus issue through the process under the auspices of the United Nations," the statement said.
Costa and von der Leyen also described the European Union and Turkey as strategic partners, saying both sides remain committed to strengthening cooperation. They added that, given today's international challenges, maintaining close relations is more important than ever.
The statement also recognised Turkey's role in responding to developments in the Middle East and in supporting efforts to secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Joining the meeting were Costa's chief foreign policy adviser, Anna-Maria Boura, European Commission Head of Cabinet Björn Seibert, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Trade Minister Ömer Bolat.
As part of the NATO Summit protocol, Erdoğan presented visiting leaders with commemorative gifts. Costa and von der Leyen each received an engraved revolver bearing their name, together with live ammunition and the required export documentation.
