WIREDGOV

Opening remarks given yesterday by President von der Leyen at the joint press conference with President Michel following the Special European Council meeting of 01 October 2020.

Good morning to all of you.

I want to focus on the discussion we had in the main part of this evening concerning our relation with Turkey. On Turkey, we reaffirm strongly the solidarity with Greece and with Cyprus. And it is very clear that no one can drive a wedge between us. The tensions in the Mediterranean have been very high because of Turkey's drilling activities in the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone and exploratory activities in Greek waters. It is good that there is now a reliable dialogue between Turkey and Greece that has begun. However, we deplore that Ankara has not made similar constructive gestures towards Cyprus. We are convinced that differences must be resolved through peaceful dialogue and in accordance with international law. We want a positive and a constructive relationship with Turkey and this would also be very much in Ankara's interest, but it will only work if the provocations and pressure stop.

We therefore expect that Turkey from now on abstains from unilateral actions. In case of such renewed actions by Ankara the EU will use all its instruments and options available. We have a toolbox that we can apply immediately, but this is not what we want. We want and would prefer to work on a new long-term EU Turkey relationship: a positive agenda that would include the modernisation of our customs union – which will increase trade – and a stronger cooperation on migration on the basis of the 2016 EU Turkey Statement.

We think that in face of the devastating impact of COVID-19 it is our strong belief that we would be well advised to cooperate and build a strong relationship.

On Belarus: I am very happy that there is now finally a way forward on sanctions. There will be no impunity for those who are responsible for the crackdown on demonstrators and opposition politicians.

And on Armenia and Azerbaijan, I can only reiterate that we need an urgent de-escalation and that there can be no military solution for external interference.

Thank you.

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