EU-27 Send Firm Message to Ankara: Cyprus Progress and an End to Threats Remain Key to Closer EU–Turkey Ties

The European Union links the future development of relations with Turkey to progress on the Cyprus issue, good neighbourly relations and the renunciation of any threat of force, according to a newly endorsed strategic document.

The European Union has delivered a clear political message to Ankara, reaffirming that any further development of EU–Turkey relations will depend on concrete progress on the Cyprus issue, respect for good neighbourly relations and the abandonment of any threat of the use of force.

The message is contained in the Joint Understanding document entitled “The Threats and Challenges We Face: Assessment of the EU Strategic Environment,” endorsed by the foreign ministers of all 27 EU member states during Monday’s Foreign Affairs Council as an item approved without debate.

Cyprus at the Core of EU–Turkey Relations

The document describes the Eastern Mediterranean as a region of strategic importance for the European Union’s security and stability, highlighting both significant opportunities and serious challenges.

While reaffirming that developing a mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey remains a strategic interest for the EU, the document stresses that such a process must proceed “in a gradual, proportionate and reversible manner,” in line with the European Council conclusions of April 2024.

It further underlines that Turkey’s own constructive engagement will be essential for advancing cooperation across a range of policy areas.

In that context, the EU places particular importance on the resumption and advancement of negotiations aimed at resolving the Cyprus issue, considering progress in the peace process an important element for strengthening EU–Turkey cooperation.

A Clear Expectation from Ankara

One of the most notable passages of the document reiterates the Union’s longstanding position regarding Turkey’s regional conduct.

The text states that “the EU continues to expect Turkey to commit unequivocally to good neighbourly relations, including refraining from any threat of the use of force.”

The wording reflects the Union’s continued emphasis on dialogue, de-escalation and full respect for international law as prerequisites for closer political engagement.

Eastern Mediterranean Remains a Strategic Priority

Beyond Turkey, the strategic assessment underscores the EU’s vital interest in the stability, security and economic development of the Mediterranean basin and the wider Southern Neighbourhood.

According to the document, strengthening the Euro-Mediterranean partnership remains a strategic priority aimed at deepening economic links, reinforcing political relations and enhancing security cooperation with partners across the region.

The EU also stresses that regional cooperation frameworks should be developed in full compliance with international law and the EU acquis.

Behind the Scenes

The updated Joint Understanding follows a political mandate issued by EU leaders at the European Council in March to revise the original 2022 assessment adopted under the Strategic Compass.

The drafting process involved extensive discussions within the Political and Security Committee, followed by deliberations at the Foreign Affairs Council in May. Member states subsequently introduced further amendments before the final text was endorsed by foreign ministers earlier this week.

The document forms part of the EU’s broader strategic assessment covering European security, internal security, economic security, maritime security, space, and the protection of critical infrastructure, including submarine cables.

Political Significance

Although the document does not introduce a new policy towards Turkey, it reinforces the European Union’s existing approach: closer EU–Turkey cooperation remains possible, but only within a framework based on respect for international law, good neighbourly relations and tangible progress on the Cyprus issue.

The strategic assessment therefore confirms that the evolution of EU–Turkey relations will continue to be gradual, proportionate and reversible, depending on developments on the ground and Turkey’s own political choices.

Source: pagenews.gr