EU expects Turkey to contribute to Cyprus solution

The European Commission expects Turkey to contribute in a positive manner to efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, Angela Filote, spokesperson of EU Commissioner on Enlargement, has said.

Filote also said that the EU does not confirm Turkish press report about an initiative by the European Commissioner on Enlargement Stephan Fule to unblock negotiating chapters in Turkey’s accession course.

“What I can say is that Mr. Fule monitors closely developments, he is in contact with all the parties involved in the Cyprus question and is available to them to help the negotiations”, she added.

It is no secret, she added, that the Commission supports the negotiations in Cyprus, aimed at finding a solution to the problem.

“The Commission expects Turkey to contribute towards that direction. The Commission believes that if a solution is found, it would be in the best interest of Cyprus, the EU and Turkey as well, because it will lead to the acceleration of the Turkey’s EU negotiation process”, she concluded.

Turkish newspapers have said that Ankara would be willing to allow flights by Cypriot aircraft in its air space and open its ports to Cypriot interest ships carrying the flag of a third country in exchange for the opening of Ercan illegal airport in Cyprus’ northern Turkish occupied areas.

Turkey does not recognise Cyprus, divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion. Peace talks are currently underway, under UN auspices, to find a negotiated settlement to reunite the country under a federal roof.