You are here

Tajani: Turkish occupation must end

08/12/2017 15:18
The European Parliament supports the termination of the Turkish military occupation of northern Cyprus, President of the EP, Antonio Tajani has stressed in Nicosia.

Tajani, who is paying an official visit to Cyprus, was received in the morning at the Presidential Palace by Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades. The meeting focused on Brexit, the Future of the EU, the EU -Turkey relations, economy, as well as the Cyprus problem.

Speaking through an interpretor, the President of the European Parliament made reference to the Cyprus problem, saying that the EP supports the negotiations based on the UN parameters.

Tajani noted that the EP supports the termination of the military occupation of Turkey on northern Cyprus saying that this was stated on an EP document on the 6th of June 2017.

"I stressed that we are committed to support all necessary procedures to achieve a solution", he said.

Tajani said that there are positive developments as regards Brexit while he pointed out that Cyprus has a positive role to play for peace in the Mediterranean.

He also said that he thanked President Anastasiades and his government for their efforts during the economic crisis for reducing unemployment and boosting economic growth.

«We see very positive results in Cyprus", he noted.

In his statements, President Anastasiades referred to Brexit, saying that they welcomed the agreement between the EU and the UK on the three areas of priority during the first phase of the negotiations.

He also briefed Tajani on the latest developments of the Cyprus issue, reiterating Cyprus’ firm position that a new Cyprus Conference must be well prepared.

In addition, he briefed him on Cyprus’ initiatives for cooperation with countries in the region for stability and peace in the Eastern Mediterranean.

He also referred to Cyprus’ position as regards the EU – Turkey relations.

Finally, President Anastasiades briefed Tajani on the obstacles imposed by Turkey regarding the humanitarian aid to the Greek Cypriot enclaved in the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus.