In a rare climate of unity, the President and political party leaders have expressed concern over Turkey’s possible moves for recognition of the breakaway regime in northern Cyprus following the war in Ukraine.
This is what Philenews reported on Friday, the day after the National Council met to discuss the political and economic impact on the divided island from the Ukrainian crisis.
Insiders said President Nicos Anastasiades referred to the European Union’s sanctions against Russia stressing that Cyprus’ compliance was unavoidable. Because:
- Firstly, Cyprus is a member state of the European Union which means that it is bound by relevant decisions.
- Secondly, Cyprus is a country that has been invaded and continues to experience the effects of the Turkish occupation.
- Thirdly, Cyprus was in a big dilemma since Russia’s long-standing strong relations are at stake.
- Fourthly, the President stressed that “if we had broken the cohesion within the EU we would have been punished”.
Anastasiades also said Cyprus had submitted a reservation over the decision to ban flights from Russia because Ankara has made clear it won’t follow suit.
And this means that Turkey may channel flights to the occupied territory in the north indirectly promoting recognition of Tymbou airport.
