EU annual progress report on Turkey highlights Cyprus disputes and diplomatic tensions
On November 4, 2026, the European Commission released its annual progress report on Turkey, which criticizes Ankara for its continued refusal to recognize the Republic of Cyprus and its persistent promotion of a two-state solution. The report urges Turkey to avoid unilateral actions in the Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean, citing concerns over security, regional tensions, and the obstruction of international collaboration. EU officials, including Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, emphasized that the normalization of EU-Turkey relations remains contingent upon progress in the Cyprus issue and adherence to international law.
In response, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the report as biased and unfair, accusing the European Union of adopting Greek-Cypriot positions and ignoring Turkey's legitimate rights. Meanwhile, diplomatic activity remains high as Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan traveled to the occupied northern part of Cyprus on November 6 to coordinate with local leadership ahead of critical upcoming discussions regarding confidence-building measures and UN-sponsored negotiation efforts. The UN envoy, Maria Angela Holguin, has set deadlines for both sides to respond to proposed measures to revitalize the peace process.