See question(s) : P-000088/2021
EN
P-000088/2021
Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell
on behalf of the European Commission
(23.3.2021)
The EU has repeatedly underlined, including in the Commission’s annual report1, that Turkey should unequivocally commit to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and the peaceful settlement of disputes having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice. Turkey must avoid threats and actions that damage good neighbourly relations and respect the sovereignty of all EU Member States over their territorial sea and airspace as well as all their sovereign rights, including, inter alia, the right to explore and exploit natural resources, in accordance with EU and international law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)2.
The EU maintains a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and remains committed to defending its interests and those of its Member States, including their sovereignty, and to upholding regional stability. The European Council of 10 December 20203 noted that, regretfully, Turkish unilateral and provocative activities in the Eastern Mediterranean were still taking place and highlighted the need for sustained de-escalation.
The EU also has a strategic interest in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey. In this context, the offer of a positive EU-Turkey agenda, which could cover the areas of the economy and trade, people to people contacts, high-level dialogues and continued cooperation on migration issues, remains on the table, provided Turkey shows readiness to promote a genuine partnership with the Union and its Member States and to resolve differences through dialogue and in accordance with international law.