Brussels, Belgium. The European Parliament adopted a recommendation calling for the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Cyprus and the resumption of negotiations for a settlement. The text was approved ahead of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly scheduled for September.
Vote and recipients of the recommendation
The recommendation was adopted on Wednesday with 369 votes in favour, 160 against and 112 abstentions. It is addressed to the EU Council, the European Commission and the EU foreign affairs representative.
Reference to Turkish troop presence and international law
The resolution refers to the continued presence of Turkish troops on the island, stating that it “constitutes a violation of international law.” It calls for the “immediate and complete withdrawal of Turkish forces,” the “guarantee of the right of return of all refugees,” and efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons.
Principles and legal obligations
MEPs urged renewed commitment to the principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states in line with the UN Charter. The parliament said these principles remain central to the EU’s “compliance with international legal norms and human rights obligations.”
Cyprus talks and UN framework
The resolution calls for the rapid resumption of talks on the Cyprus settlement under UN auspices. It reiterated support for a framework based on a bizonal and bicommunal federation with political equality, in line with relevant UN resolutions.
Green Line and UN peacekeeping mandate
The text underlines respect for the status of the Green Line and reiterates support for the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp).
What do you think should be the next step to restart Cyprus settlement talks under UN auspices?