Τurkey is a cantankerous neighbor

A resonant intervention in Greco-Turkish relations and the Cyprus problem was made today by the President, aiming arrows at the EU.

“The wayward neighbor, Turkey, not only shows no willingness for constructive dialogue, but also demonstrates the exact opposite”, stated Karolos Papoulias, receiving the president of the Coordination Committee of Carpasia, Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Falas, and other Cypriots.

Mr. Papoulias stated that no visible prospects for progress in the Cyprus issue are apparent and criticized the recent statements of Vice President of the Turkish government Egemen Bagis, who directly threatened to annex the occupied territory of the Cyprus Republic!

“On the other hand, they want to join the EU”, commented the President of the Hellenic Republic. He also wondered “if they think that not through actions alone, but through words also that they keep repeating, threats not only against Cyprus, but also Greece- that they can have the support of the European Union”.

Papoulias denounced the attitude of the European Union, stating that “it finds itself in such a state that it doesn’t want to be stricter against Turkey. Perhaps because it thinks its interest should not be put at risk by the protection of human rights and freedom being fought for by the struggling people of Cyprus”.

Addressing the Cypriot representatives of regions occupied by Turkey, the Greek President underlined that “the current situation with drilling in Cyprus is changing the strategic data in the region. Indications point to the fact that Cyprus will quickly become a potential factor of energy supply in Europe. This is understood by Europeans. And I believe that they alone realize that”.

Mr. Papoulias expressed his optimism that the new strategic data “will make Europe more interested in order for them to enforce the law in the Republic of Cyprus”.

Attempting to explain the European tolerance towards Turkey, Mr. Papoulias estimated that “they think that the size of Turkey is going to be a stable platform for Europe’s firm basis to restore peace in the area”.

“I do not believe that. Turkey serves its own interests, selling - if you will - its size and military power. I do not know how much military power NATO holds in Europe, so that it can support any plans that Europe currently has for the region”.

The President underlined the importance of the improvement of relations between Cyprus and Israel for future developments and the balance of relations with Turkey.

“We have proclaimed, since we hold good relations with Israel and so does President Christofias, that these good relations are not directed against anyone, but I am certain that Turkey is seriously concerned about these relationships. If Turkey takes someone seriously, it is Israel, not for its military power, but also for the power it has through USA’s support”.