Fidan Seeks 'Removal of Reservations' from Cyprus for EU-Turkey Relations

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has identified the stance of the Republic of Cyprus as the main obstacle to progress in EU-Turkey relations, particularly regarding the Customs Union and entry visas. During an interview with CNN Türk, Fidan called on the Greek Cypriot side to lift its reservations, while overlooking Cyprus's conditions for the full implementation of Turkey's obligations. Specifically, Cyprus demands Cyprus-specific obligations and cooperation for the resolution of the Cyprus issue. Fidan did not directly criticize the Greek Cypriot side but emphasized that the issue could be discussed at the upcoming meeting between Mitsotakis and Erdoğan. This statement comes at a time of heightened tension between Turkey and Cyprus, with Ankara insisting on the need for immediate progress in EU-Turkey relations, while Nicosia maintains a more cautious approach. Turkey seeks the lifting of Cyprus's reservations regarding the Customs Union, which would allow the free movement of goods between the two countries. It also seeks to simplify the procedures for issuing entry visas for Turkish citizens to Cyprus. However, Cyprus believes that these facilitations should be accompanied by specific commitments from Turkey. Cyprus's position is based on the need to respect international law and the decisions of the UN Security Council regarding the Cyprus issue. Nicosia insists that the resolution of the Cyprus problem is a prerequisite for the full normalization of relations with Turkey and the lifting of reservations on issues such as the Customs Union and entry visas.