International studies, Vol. VI No. 2, 2006.
Original scientific paper
The European Union, NATO and the Triangle of Greece, Turkey and Cyprus
Joseph S. Joseph
; Professor of European Foreign and Security Policy, University of Cyprus
Abstract
The Cyprus problem itself is not primarily a dispute between Greece and Turkey. Although it affects and it is affected by Greek-Turkish relations, today the Cyprus problem is basically one of de facto division and foreign control of part of the island. This article deals with Greek-Turkish relations and the Cyprus problem in the context of NATO and EU interests and concerns in the region. It argues that today the EU can play a catalytic role in finding a long overdue settlement on Cyprus and improving Greek-Turkish relations.
Although ali UN efforts have failed, blaming the UN for failure in Cyprus is an unfair oversimplification. As an institutional arrangement through which governments interact, the UN has no power of its own and cannot do anything that countries are not willing or determined to do. The EU, in cooperation with the United Nations, is now ina unique position to play a role on Cyprus (which is now a member-state) and in the region. The EU favours a settlement that will reunite the island and its people under a bizonal bicommunal federation.
Keywords
Cyprus; Turkey; Greece; Turkish Cypriots; Greek Cypriots; EU; NATO; UN; Eastern Mediterranean
Hrčak ID:
290608
URI
Publication date:
15.7.2006.
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