December 2020 European Council reiterated its October 2020 conclusions and condemned Turkey’s unilateral steps in Varosha and called for full respect of UN Security Council Resolutions 550 and 789. On 27 July 2021, the High Representative strongly condemned on behalf of the EU Turkey’s unilateral steps and the unacceptable announcements made by the Turkish President and the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community on 20 July 2021 on the further reopening of the fenced-off town of Varosha. In addition the High Representative welcomed the Statement made by the President of the UN Security Council on behalf of the Council on 23 July 2021. As emphasised in the Negotiating Framework and Council declarations, Turkey is expected to actively support the negotiations on a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement of the Cyprus issue within the UN framework, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the EU acquis. It is important that Turkey reaffirms its commitment to and constructive engagement to the United Nations-led settlement talks on Cyprus in line with the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, including in its external aspects. No unilateral actions should be taken that could raise tensions on the island and undermine a return to talks. Related to Varosha, Turkey must immediately reverse the unilateral actions announced on 20 July 2021 and all steps taken on Varosha since October 2020 that run contrary to relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Turkey continues to refuse to recognise the Republic of Cyprus. Despite repeated calls by the Council and the Commission, Turkey has still not complied with its obligations as outlined in the Declaration of the European Community and its Member States of 21 September 2005 and in Council Conclusions, including those of December 2006 and December 2015. Turkey has not fulfilled its obligation to ensure full and non-discriminatory implementation of the Additional Protocol to the Association Agreement and has not removed all obstacles to the free movement of goods, including restrictions on direct transport links with the Republic of Cyprus.” The Cyprus Question| A brief Introduction 29
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