Cyprus welcomes EU amendments on Turkey, but not yet satisfied

Cypriot Foreign Minister George Lillikas welcomed the latest amendments to the draft conclusions relating to Turkey’a accession course, to be discussed tomorrow at the EU General Affairs Council in Brussels, stressing however that the proposed text is not yet satisfactory, as no set timeframe for the fulfillment of Turkey‘s EU obligations is included.

In statements before his departure for Brussels, Lillikas described as “positive” the amendments circulated last night by the EU Finnish Presidency, noting that ”the significant element for us remains the fact that the rendez-vous included in the new conclusions should be determined in a timeframe.”

“It is very important for us to include a timeframe for Turkey in the final conclusions. I welcome the amendment relating to a new rendez-vous, which is an improvement but not a satisfactory one,” the minister said.

He explained that Cyprus has suggested a period of 18 months, as a deadline, noting that a longer or shorter period could be discussed but not an indefinite period in the depth of time.

According to Lillikas, the amendments were introduced after Friday’s discussions at the Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER).

”The fist discussion on a political level starts tomorrow aiming at reaching, if possible, conclusions,” he added.

Replying to questions, Lillikas indicated that it would be preferable not to issue any conclusions, if circumstances so demand, in order to safeguard our sovereign rights as a member state.

”We could live without conclusions but this is not our objective. This is our line of defence,” he added.

”The aim is not to punish Turkey but to see Ankara willingly fulfill its obligations towards the EU and the 25 member states,” Lillikas stressed, adding that judging from past experience only through strong pressure and monitoring mechanisms will there be hope for Turkey to comply with its obligations.

He said there is understanding among EU partners and expressed hope that this will continue at tomorrow’s meeting.

The Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state, has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.

Turkey, a country aspiring to become an EU member state, does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus and refuses to implement the EU-Turkey Customs Union Protocol, by opening its ports and airports to Cypriot vessels and aircraft.