European Parliament annual report on Turkey sparks reaction from Turkish Cypriot leadership

The European Parliament’s foreign affairs committee approved an annual report on Turkey on Wednesday with 44 votes in favor, 10 against, and 17 abstentions. The report calls on Turkey to provide the Turkish Cypriot community the necessary space to chart its own political course, emphasizing their role as a legitimate community on the island. Rapporteur Nacho Sanchez Amor stated that while the EU sees no reason to resume Turkey’s accession process due to democratic standards, there remains room for cooperation on bilateral sectoral agendas. The document also urges the European Commission to increase engagement with the Turkish Cypriot community to facilitate a resolution to the Cyprus problem. Turkish Cypriot leader Unal Ustel expressed regret regarding the report, labeling the suggestion of Turkish interference as factually incorrect and unacceptable. Ustel argued that Turkey’s involvement is a natural consequence of its role as a guarantor power. Furthermore, Ustel criticized the report for ignoring his administration’s position on sovereign equality, though sources note his stance differs from other figures like Tufan Erhurman, who supports a federal solution. The report ultimately calls for a courageous approach to the Cyprus problem and the implementation of the EU acquis throughout the island once a settlement is reached.