The political group of the Left (GUE/NGL) in the European Parliament has called on Turkey to stop imposing entry bans for certain Turkish Cypriot citizens of the EU, pointing to 12 incidents where Turkish Cypriots, including journalists and trade unionists, were prevented from entering the country since 2021.

In a statement, co-signed on behalf of the group by AKEL MEPs Giorgos Georgiou and Niyazi Kizilyurek, Turkey had denied entry to these 12 individuals 'under the vague pretext of national security concerns'.

'However, all 12 individuals are well-known for their unwavering dedication to the reunification of Cyprus in accordance with United Nations resolutions and EU policies, particularly the Bizonal, Bicommunal Federation (BBF) framework for Cyprus,' the Left group adds.

'It is evident, therefore, that these individuals are being prevented from entering Turkey due to their political beliefs,' the statement continues.

'The Left in the European Parliament strongly condemns this unacceptable and regrettable policy implemented by the Turkish authorities. We hereby call upon Trkiye to eliminate all impediments preventing Turkish Cypriot EU citizens from entering Turkish territory,' the group concludes.

Source: Cyprus News Agency