turkey engagement — turkey engagement — Turkey’s engagement in talks regarding the Cyprus problem has been welcomed by European Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos. This statement came during her meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara on Friday, where they discussed the ongoing informal process on Cyprus under the auspices of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Turkey engagement: Encouraging Collaboration
During the joint press conference, Kos emphasised the importance of pursuing initiatives that build trust between the conflicting parties. Her remarks followed earlier comments in the week where she spoke of a significant opportunity for Turkey to advance its accession process to the European Union through renewed discussions aimed at resolving the Cyprus issue.
Opportunity for Progress
“We know that any progress is connected to bilateral relations, not just Cyprus, but also with the new Cyprus settlement talks. It is now a big opportunity to continue,” Kos stated. She further noted that there is more that connects the EU and Turkey than what divides them, highlighting the potential for improved cooperation.
Turkey’s Role in European Defence
Kos also mentioned that Turkey’s aspiration to be more involved in Europe’s defence architecture hinges on the positions of EU member states. She reiterated that the upcoming Cyprus settlement talks present a pivotal opportunity for enhancing relations in this area.
Upcoming Meetings and Expectations
Turkey’s next direct involvement in the Cyprus issue is anticipated at an enlarged meeting, which will include representatives from both sides of the island, the UN, and Turkey, alongside the other two guarantor powers, Greece and the United Kingdom. However, a date for this significant meeting has yet to be set.
Recent Tripartite Meeting Outcomes
Last week, a tripartite meeting involving Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman, and UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin concluded without any agreements. Holguin pointed out that no enlarged meeting could be convened until “results on the confidence-building measures” between the two sides had been achieved.
UN’s Call for Action
After the tripartite meeting, Holguin expressed her anticipation for further progress, stating, “I am waiting for something more.” She responded to queries regarding whether Christodoulides and Erhurman had made headway on the demands for further progress made earlier in the week, saying, “I think they might. Not yet.”
Reports have indicated that Guterres was “seriously disturbed” by the lack of progress observed since the previous tripartite meeting. He underscored the necessity for Cypriot leaders to take urgent steps to improve life between the two communities through confidence-building measures.
Future Meetings Scheduled
Furthermore, Guterres has instructed Holguin to convey to the leaders that without tangible steps taken on these confidence-building measures, he would be unwilling to convene an enlarged meeting. The next scheduled meeting between Christodoulides and Erhurman is set for February 24, where further discussions are expected to take place.
Ongoing Challenges
The Cyprus issue, which has persisted for decades, remains a complex challenge for both the island’s communities and the international community. The divided nature of Cyprus has led to ongoing tensions, making any progress in talks a significant step towards resolution.
In her remarks, Kos highlighted the necessity for collaboration and trust-building, essential elements for moving forward. As Turkey engages more deeply in these discussions, the focus remains on how both sides can address their differences while working towards a peaceful resolution.
