Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán took part in the unofficial summit of the Organization of Turkic States, which is promoting the legitimization of the so-called "Northern Cyprus", as an observer.
Points of attention
- Viktor Orbán's participation in the Organization of Turkic States summit as an observer has stirred controversy due to the EU's non-recognition of 'Northern Cyprus'.
- The EU's stance on 'Northern Cyprus' as a separatist entity recognized only by Turkey underscores the complexity of regional relations and tensions between Turkey and the EU.
- The lack of EU mandate for Hungary's engagement with the Organization of Turkic States has led to political conflict between Hungary and the EU, as highlighted by Josep Borrell's criticism.
- The 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' remains a divisive issue, situated within the internationally recognized borders of the Republic of Cyprus but acknowledged solely by Turkey.
- The presence of Turkish troops in 'Northern Cyprus' is viewed as an occupying force by the Republic of Cyprus and the UN, further complicating the diplomatic landscape.
What is known about the new diplomatic scandal involving Orban
Orban's participation in the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Shusha in Azerbaijan was criticized by the head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell.
He noted that Orbán could participate in this summit exclusively within the framework of Hungary's bilateral relations with this organization.
Hungary did not receive any mandate from the EU Council to develop relations with the Organization of Turkic States, Borrell stressed.
According to him, the European Union does not support the attempts of the Organization of Turkic States to legitimize the separatist entity of Turkish Cypriots - the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" - as an observer.
This decision, pending ratification by the members of the Organization, is regrettable and contradicts the fact that some members of the Organization have expressed strong support for the principle of territorial integrity and the UN Charter. The EU has repeatedly made it clear, including at the highest political level, that the EU recognizes only the Republic of Cyprus as a subject of international law in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council, Borrell emphasized.
What is known about the so-called republic of "Northern Cyprus"
This formation is in the north of Cyprus, as it is located within the internationally recognized borders of the Republic of Cyprus. The separatists have been recognized only by Turkey, which is heavily dependent on its economic, political and military support. Turkey places a contingent of its troops in the north of the island. The Republic of Cyprus and the UN consider it an occupying force.
