Borrell: Resolution of Cyprus issue in accordance with UN decisions is of crucial importance
Date Added: 21 July 2023

The High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, said that there were mutual interests in developing a stronger relationship between Türkiye and the EU.

Holding a press conference following the meeting of EU Foreign Ministers in Brussels, Borrell stressed that the permanent reduction of tension in the Eastern Mediterranean would benefit the stability and security of the region.

“Resolving the Cyprus issue in accordance with relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions will be of paramount importance in our collaboration with Türkiye,” he said.

The foreign ministers of European Union countries gathered in Brussels for a meeting where various topics were discussed, including Türkiye.

During the meeting, Türkiye was officially brought up for the first time since March 2021.

High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, stated in a press conference after the meeting that the exchanges of views during the meeting would be reflected in the report prepared for the leaders of the EU countries.

“We believe that there are mutual interests in developing a stronger relationship between Türkiye and the EU. Permanently reducing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean will benefit the stability and security of the region. Resolving the Cyprus issue in accordance with relevant UN resolutions will be of key importance in our cooperation with Türkiye” Borrell noted.

When asked about the EU’s expectations from Türkiye regarding the updating of the Customs Union and visa liberalization issues, he said, “Türkiye has expressed its desire for the updating of the Customs Union agreement. There is also the issue of visa liberalization. These are two important matters that Türkiye intends to bring up in the near future. We hope for a permanent reduction in tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, serious efforts are underway for the resumption of Cyprus negotiations based on previously accepted agreements by the UN.”

Stating that Greece and the Greek Cypriot Administration should also be involved in the matter, Borrell said, “The situation in the Eastern Mediterranean will be one of the vital elements in our efforts to maintain constructive relations with Türkiye.”