Turkey shows signs of bowing to EU pressure

In an unexpected move yesterday Turkey conceded it is ready to open one of its ports to Cypriot vessels, signalling it will be bowing to EU pressure.

This development arrived following last week's European Commission recommendation to put Turkey's ongoing accession negotiation to join the EU on a "slow mode" until Ankara decides to adhere to its pre-negotiations commitments, particularly on Cyprus.

A short statement yesterday by the Finnish EU presidency confirmed that recent developments may lead to the reversing of the current stalemate.

Finland's Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja said Turkey informed the Finnish presidency of its intention to provisionally open a major seaport to Cypriot vessels.

"Turkey's initiative is a positive step towards full implementation of the Ankara protocol, but still needs clarification. If Turkey is ready for such an unconditional move, this positive step will influence the Council's discussions on the continuation of Turkey's EU accession process," the minister said.

EU Foreign Ministers are set to discuss the situation on Monday during a meeting of the General Affairs Council in Brussels, a few days before the EU summit meeting later on in the week.

In its recommendation, the Commission said it should not open negotiations with Turkey on chapters covering policy areas relevant to Turkey's restrictions with regard to Cyprus until the Commission confirms that Turkey has fulfilled its commitments.

The main row which led to this stalemate was the refusal of Turkey to open its ports and airspace to Cypriot vessels and planes.

Turkey still does not recognise Cyprus.