Papadopoulos: Turkey has to to Recognize Us

The leader of the Greek Cypriot side, which is an official European Union (EU) member as of May 1, emphasized the Turkey’s standpoint on the Cyprus issue is crucially important. Papadopoulos defended Turkey cannot hope to improve its relations with the EU if it does not cultivate relations with the Greek side. He claimed that Turkey has an obligation to recognize the Greek side.

Papadopoulos spoke while he was in Dublin for the EU enlargement ceremonies on May 1. He disclosed that the Greek side is sorry that it could not celebrate EU enlargement with the Turkish Cypriots. "Unfortunately, that was not possible. There are many reasons for this missed opportunity," he said.

Papadopoulos also pointed out the support that EU term president Ireland gave during the Greek side’s accession process. The Greek Cypriot leader claimed that his counterparts in the EU treat him just as they always have. "I had the chance to explain ourselves to many of them; I believe the worst days are over," added Papadopoulos.

He then emphasized that the Greek side now has a serious shield since it is a member of the EU. In addition the Greek side has the same privileges as the other members.

Meanwhile, when Greek Foreign Minister Georges Yakovu was reminded about Erdogan’s remarks, he agreed that Turkey is bound to recognize the Cyprus Republic. He added that he believes Ankara will soon have meetings with Greece and that many issues may emerge from those meetings.

On the other side, Cypriot Greek Spokesman Kyprus Khrisostomidis said, "That Erdogan would recognize us is a correct and understandable behavior because Turkey cannot enter the EU if it does not recognize one of its members."