EU urges Turkey to halt actions disrupting regional stability in Cyprus

The European Commission has issued a call to Turkey, urging the cessation of threats and actions that disrupt good neighborly relations. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, emphasized the need for Turkey to normalize relations with the Republic of Cyprus and respect the sovereign rights of all EU member states. This statement came in response to MEP Demetris Papadakis, who raised concerns over provocative actions by Turkish-occupying forces in the buffer zone in Agios Dometios. Borrell affirmed the EU's commitment to resolving the Cyprus problem based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality. The European Commission, highlighting a strategic interest in a stable Eastern Mediterranean, called on Turkey to adhere to international law, de-escalate tensions, and foster good neighborly relations.

Cyprus has remained divided since Turkey's 1974 invasion of its northern third. Despite repeated UN-led peace talks, no conclusive resolution has been reached. In response to recent incidents, the international community condemned Turkish Cypriots for attacking peacekeepers last August and for installing equipment in the buffer zone in December 2023. The UN Secretary General's recent report emphasizes refraining from unilateral actions that could escalate tensions in and around the buffer zone. The EU continues to defend its interests and urges Turkey to cease actions detrimental to good neighborly relations.

[Source: CNA]