The EU expresses regret over Turkey’s actions in Varosha, according to a written statement by the EU High Representative. “We deplore today’s actions regarding the opening of the fenced off area of Varosha and statements contradicting the UN principles for a settlement of the Cyprus question. They will cause greater distrust and tension in the region and should be urgently reversed,” said Josep Borrell.
Josep Borrell noted that “a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and the development of cooperative and mutually beneficial relationships amongst all partners in the region, bilaterally and multilaterally, is in the EU’s strategic interest.”
At the same time, he stressed that ” [the] developments in Varosha come at a time when attempts to create space for dialogue are ongoing, and the speedy resumption of negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations (UN) for a comprehensive settlement and reunification is needed on the basis of progress achieved so far.” “The European Union stands ready to play an active role in supporting these negotiations and finding lasting solutions.”
Finally, Josep Borrell states that “the EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, and to reunification based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, within the UN framework and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded.”