January 14, 2016•Update: January 14, 2016
BRUSSELS
European Parliament President Martin Schulz has said it is possible to reach a solution on the divided island of Cyprus.
Addressing the European Parliament in Brussels on Thursday, Schulz spoke about the Cyprus issue while listing EU’s priorities in the New Year.
"I think it’s possible to achieve reunification of Cyprus and negotiation between the two groups on the island is looking very promising at the moment,” he said.
"We must do everything within [the] power of EU institutions to ensure we play our part in a constructive outcome," Schulz added.
A solution between the Greek Cypriot administration and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus could result in a boost in Turkey’s accession into the EU.
"If in this crisis year, we can achieve the reunification of Cyprus, I think this is a symbol that would speak to the international community and would give everyone hope," Schulz said.
The Cyprus issue remains a major obstacle to Turkey’s EU accession plans, as memberships talks on several policy areas, or "chapters", including energy, is blocked by the Greek Cypriot administration.
Out of 35 policy areas, which must be completed in order for the country to join the 28-nation bloc, only 15 have been opened. Talks on economic policy was opened on Dec. 14.
Turkish Cypriot President Mustafa Akinci and the Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades resumed talks on reunifying the island following Akinci’s election in April 2015.
