The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, denounced on Sunday 15 November, the visit made earlier in the day by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, to Varosha, where he called for a “solution based on two separate states” for the Cyprus, adding that there were “two peoples and two separate states in Cyprus”.
“We deplore the actions (of 15 November) regarding the opening of the fenced off area of Varosha and statements contradicting the UN principles for a settlement of the Cyprus question”, the High Representative emphasised in a statement. In his opinion, these acts will lead to greater distrust and tension in the region and should be “urgently reversed”. They also come at a time when attempts to create a space for dialogue are underway (see EUROPE 12595/25).
“The speedy resumption of negotiations under the auspice of the UN for a comprehensive settlement and reunification is needed on the basis of the progress achieved so far”, Borrell said. He added that it was imperative for Turkey to contribute in concrete terms and undertake responsible action with a view to creating a conducive environment for negotiations.
The High Representative reiterated the EU’s full commitment to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, and to reunification based on a bi-zonal and bi-communal federation with political equality, within the UN framework and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded. He also reaffirmed the importance of the status of Varosha, warning that “no actions should be carried out that are not in accordance with the resolutions” of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
“The EU’s message is very clear: there is no alternative to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem other than on the basis of the relevant UNSC resolutions”, Borrell insisted. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)