EU's Position on Cyprus and its Relations with Turkey
December 22, 2024
Ursula von der Leyen informed Erdoğan that the upgrading of the Customs Union with the EU requires the recognition of the Republic of Cyprus. Turkey wishes to enhance its trade relations with the EU, but Cyprus remains a key factor in this process. The Turkish demands for visa liberalization and energy dialogue are directly tied to the situation in Cyprus. The President of the Commission made it clear that negotiations cannot proceed if Turkey does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus.