Trade with Cypriot Greeks Via Third Party Countries

Ankara has now informed Brussels with this latest development that the technical procedure has been completed and is ready to be signed. Diplomatic sources say that Turkey has officially asked Brussels in the letter; to confirm how much time the EU approval and signature processes will take. "Turkey has fulfilled its responsibility and has confirmed that it will sign the protocol. Any delay after this is caused by the procedures within the EU itself," noted the diplomat in summing up the steps taken at this stage.

There is the expression of the "Cyprus Republic" in the Adaptation Protocol. Turkey, however, is of the opinion that it does not mean their recognition of Cypriot Greece. A "Declaration of Will and Intent" will be announced during the signature phase of the protocol. That Turkey continues to recognize Northern Cyprus Turkish Republic (TRNC) will also be emphasized. Greek Cyprus was mentioned as "Cyprus" in theOctober 3, 2004 dated Cabinet Decision.

The Protocol text defines the limits of the Customs Union as "the lands that the EU acquis communautaire: is valid." While the EU has shows the island including the north within the borders of the Union, it has not implemented the communautaire in the TRNC. It has been highlighted that the Cypriot Greek administration does not represent the entire island. The Adaptation Protocol does not allow the use of ports and airports, because they are included within the service sector. Under these circumstances, Cypriot Greeks will not be able to sell goods directly; therefore, trade will be operated only through some third party countries. These conditions also apply to Turkey’s goods. Turkey has conveyed to Brussels an offer that they will open ports and airports for use by Greek planes and ships on the condition that the isolation imposed upon the TRNC is removed.