Kasoulides: We will not agree to open chapters 23-24 with Turkey
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Minister of Foreign Affairs Ioannis Kasoulides stressed that Cyprus will not agree to the opening of two EU -Turkey negotiating chapters so that Ankara cooperates in the refugees` crisis.
The Minister, who participated in the EU Foreign Affairs Council that took place in Luxembourg today, referred during a working lunch to the refugees` crisis and Turkey`s role.
Kasoulides noted that the EU must cooperate with Ankara as regards the refugees` flows to Europe, but stressed that Cyprus will not agree to the opening of negotiating chapters 23 and 24 of Ankara`s EU accession course as long as Turkey does not fullfil its obligations towards Cyprus.
Meanwhile, in an intervention during the discussion on Syria, the Minister said that our goal should be the achievement of peace and stability in Syria and the maintenance of the unity and territorial integrity of the country. In addition, what is needed, he said, is the beginning of a political dialogue with the participation of all interested parties.
Kasoulides also said that Europe must increase its humanitarian aid to the country so that the thousands of people do not abandon their homes.
Tomorrow, the Minister will participate in the General Affairs Council which will prepare the ground for the next EU Summit 15-16 October in Brussels.
CNA/AAR/GCH 2015, ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY