The S&D Group in the European Parliament deplores the situation in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) around the Republic of Cyprus. The S&Ds calls on Turkey to withdraw its warships and respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus. At the same time the Group reiterates its support for EU enlargement negotiations with Turkey and for the continuation of the reunification talks in Cyprus.
Following the resolution on Cyprus adopted in the Parliament’s plenary session in Brussels, the S&D Group’s vice-president Victor Boştinaru said:
"The European Parliament resolution clearly states our concerns about Turkey’s presence in the Exclusive Economic Zone of a European member state - Cyprus. This must stop and we, the European Parliament, call on Turkey to withdraw its ships from European territory!
"We express our strong support for the reunification talks between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. We trust that the continuation of the talks, with no preconditions, is the answer to the Cyprus problem and we believe that the exploitation of hydrocarbons will benefit both sides in Cyprus and the entire region.
"The Socialists and Democrats strongly support the European path for Turkey. I trust that our dialogue with our Turkish counterparts will continue and have a positive outcome for the both sides. Turkey has a European future as long as Turkey wants it!"
Richard Howitt MEP, foreign affairs spokesperson for the S&D Group, said:
"The solution to this crisis and to a long-term settlement for Cyprus will only be achieved by a negotiated, diplomatic approach. The Socialists and Democrats will uphold the principles of international law which must be respected, but will seek to do so in a way which supports de-escalation in situations of conflict and reconciliation for the peoples affected."
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