Summary: March 11, 2003: Commission regrets failure of UN efforts to solve the Cyprus problem and confirms accession process will go ahead as scheduled (Brussels)
The Commission regrets that the efforts of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, to find a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem have not been successful. The Commission has lent its full support to this process and recalls the willingness of the European Union to accommodate a settlement in line with the principles on which the EU is founded.
While such a settlement was the preference of the European Union, the Commission confirms that the accession process will go ahead as foreseen according to the existing timetable. All the necessary preliminary legal steps have been taken to permit this.
The Commission notes the statement of the Secretary-general that his plan remains on the table. The Commission is ready to assist any further efforts in this context. The Commission encourages all parties concerned, and, in particular Turkey, to strive to achieve a settlement.
The Commission expresses its solidarity with all Cypriots and acknowledges the courage with which the Turkish-Cypriots have expressed their European convictions. The Commission will continue to support projects in Cyprus to benefit both communities, to reduce economic disparities on the island and to build confidence between them.
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