EU message to Turkey on Cyprus: 'Promote a solution through the UN process'

European Union leaders Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen have urged Turkey to advance a solution to the Cyprus issue, emphasizing the need to utilize "renewed dynamics" within the framework of UN-led processes. The call came during a dinner meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the NATO Summit.

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the European Union and Turkey are strategic partners and we are committed to strengthening our relationship.

Michel and von der Leyen expressed gratitude for Erdoğan's hospitality, highlighting the importance of the EU-Turkey relationship as "strategic partners." They stated that in an increasingly demanding world, their partnership is more critical than ever. The leaders acknowledged Turkey's significant role as a partner in addressing crises in the Middle East and supporting efforts for peace in Ukraine.

During the meeting, which also included top advisors from both sides and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, the EU leaders specifically pointed to the Cyprus issue. They stressed that the "renewed dynamic" should be harnessed to promote a settlement under UN auspices. The discussion also touched upon Turkey's contributions to regional stability and its role in international peace efforts.

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In a world that is becoming increasingly demanding, our partnership is more important than ever.

As a symbolic gesture, President Erdoğan presented Michel and von der Leyen with personalized revolvers, each accompanied by export documents. This gift mirrored tokens given to other leaders attending the NATO Summit. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between the EU and Turkey, aiming to strengthen cooperation on various fronts, including regional security and conflict resolution.

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We must also leverage the renewed dynamic to promote a settlement of the Cyprus issue through the process under the auspices of the UN.