Cyprus and the European Union
A Divided Island in a United Europe
Cyprus, a presidential republic in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, has a unique relationship with the European Union (EU). Despite joining the EU in 2004 as a de facto divided island, the entire island is considered part of the EU. However, EU legislation is suspended in Northern Cyprus pending a final settlement of the Cyprus problem.
Cyprus's Path to EU Membership
Cyprus's journey to EU membership began in 1990 when it applied to join the European Communities. In 1997, negotiations commenced, and in 2002, Cyprus signed the Accession Treaty. On May 1, 2004, Cyprus became a full EU Member State, along with other accession countries like the Czech Republic, Estonia, and Hungary.
Cyprus as a Divided Island
Cyprus has been divided into two main regions since 1974: the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus in the south and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the north. This division has also affected Cyprus's relationship with the EU.
The EU recognizes the Republic of Cyprus as the sole legitimate government of the island. However, it has maintained diplomatic relations with Northern Cyprus and has provided assistance to both communities on the island.
EU Legislation in Cyprus
As a full EU Member State, Cyprus is subject to EU legislation. However, due to the ongoing Cyprus problem, EU legislation is not fully implemented in Northern Cyprus. This suspension will continue until a final settlement between the two sides is reached.
Despite the division, the EU remains committed to the reunification of Cyprus and supports efforts towards a comprehensive solution to the conflict.
Symbolic Ledra Street Crossing
A significant milestone in the relations between Cyprus and the EU was the reopening of the Ledra Street crossing in 2008. This crossing, located in the heart of Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, had been closed for decades.
The reopening of the Ledra Street crossing symbolized the hope for future reunification and cooperation between the two sides of the island and within the broader European Union.
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