Positive indications for Turkey's obligations in relation to the settlement of the Cyprus problem, but also negative elements for Ankara's general Cypriot obligations, are included in the report adopted on Tuesday by the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee. The report was adopted by 51 votes to 3, with 14 abstentions.
The text reiterates, among other things, the classic position of the European Parliament for the return of Varos to the UN, for the beginning of the withdrawal of Turkish troops, while Ankara is asked to end the settlement, in order not to disturb the demographic balance of Cyprus. The report calls on Turkey to actively contribute to the solution of the Cyprus problem and reiterates that its contribution is crucial.
Supports the continuation of the Geneva process with a view to achieving a mutually acceptable solution in the area of security and guarantees, as well as a "fair, comprehensive and sustainable solution, based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, an international legal personality, sovereignty and citizenship with political equality between the two communities, in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions, international law and the acquis communautaire and on the basis of respect for the principles on which the EU is founded. " .
The text also urges Ankara to "fully respect the sovereign rights of all Member States, including those related to the exploration and exploitation of natural resources, in accordance with the acquis communautaire and international law". "And he urges Turkey to refrain from threats or actions that could have a negative effect on good neighborly relations."
The negatives of the report include the support of the Commission's proposal for the upgrading of the Turkish Customs Union, as well as the report on the "uninterrupted" harmonization of the Turkish Cypriots with the acquis communautaire, which creates the impression that this process will continue independently the course of direct negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus problem, which conflicts with the positions of Nicosia.
The reports on the issuance of European visa visas for 75 million Turkish citizens, as well as the indirect attempt to grant observer status to Turkey, in order to be invited and participate through the Turkish Foreign Minister in the EU Foreign Ministers' Councils, are also of concern. relevant issues ".
Following its adoption by the Foreign Affairs Committee, the report will be presented to the political groups for the submission of new amendments, before being approved by the plenary of the European Parliament in early July.
Source: Liberal