Foreign Minister Tuomioja's statement on Turkey's intention to open a port to Cypriot vessels

Press release 519/2006
7 December, 2006

Minister for Foreign Affairs Erkki Tuomioja confirms that Turkey has informed the Finnish Presidency of its intention to provisionally open a major sea port to Cypriot vessels.

"Turkey's initiative is a positive step towards full implementation of the Ankara protocol, but still needs clarification. If Turkey is ready for such an unconditional move, this positive step will influence the Council`s discussions on the continuation of Turkey's EU accession process," says Foreign Minister Tuomioja.