EDITORIAL: Cyprus needs stronger voice in European Maritime Day events

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The European Commission is marking “European Maritime Day” today with a series of events in Rome that highlight the importance of seafaring to Europe's prosperity, sustainability and security.
When in Rome, stakeholders, administrations and other players from the EU and the Mediterranean basin will discuss the global challenges faced by maritime Europe today, including the fight against climate change and efforts to revive Europe’s competitive edge.
Issues on the table include integrated maritime governance, emerging technologies, energy generation, planning of the maritime space, surveillance systems for the seas, sustainable coastal tourism, reform of the Common Fisheries Policy and others that will lead into the future development of the EU’s Integrated Maritime Policy.
What is of crucial importance to stakeholders in Cyprus is the government’s ability to keep its line on the conflict with Turkey, as Ankara is showing no sign of abiding by EU conditions for recognition of the Cyprus flag and removal of all sanctions on Cyprus ships entering Turkish ports.
It is no use saying that Cyprus will host the EMLO conference in a few years from now, if Cyprus has no say in the maritime affairs of Europe. Nicosia must make a stand as 2009 has been judged to be a critical year, both for any progress in the peace talks, and for Turkey’s hopes to start substantive accession talks with Brussels.
Cyprus has avoided playing the veto card against Turkey for fear of being lambasted by fellow EU members who depend on lucrative trade and military ties with Turkey.
Is it not time that the Christofias administration adopts a more aggressive policy and tests Turkey’s genuine intentions, by calling for Ankara to remove all obstacles to Cyprus shipping immediately? If not in Rome, then where and when?