Turkey’s opening of one port and one airport to Cyprus is a step towards fulfilling its obligations to the EU. The Commission had earlier recommended to partially suspend talks with Turkey, because it refused to open its trade to Cyprus.
The move comes as foreign ministers are discussing the issue in Brussels on 6-7 December 2006, one week ahead of the European Council, which will decide on a partial suspension of EU membership talks with Turkey.
The plans were confirmed by the head of the Turkish business association in Brussels, Bahadir Kaleagasi, who told EurActiv it showed a clear sign of diplomatic “good will”. He further added that the Turkish side would like to continue the accession process without a change of rhythm, but also waited to see further step from Cyprus.
Kaleagasi also warned that a suspension of talks could create a climate of uncertainty and would lead to a further decline in Turkish public support for EU membership.
