Ergüven: Risk of Exclusion in Schengen Process Could Undermine Trust in EU

Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV’s Morning News programme hosted by Canan Onurer, Ergüven shared the KTTO’s perspectives on the issue and revealed that they have initiated contact with EU officials to discuss their concerns and expectations regarding the process.

“Exclusion of Turkish Cypriots Would Erode Trust in the EU”

Evaluating the Republic of Cyprus’s ongoing bid to join the Schengen Zone and its potential implications for the north, Ergüven pointed to a lack of a clear framework or roadmap. He stressed that failing to include Turkish Cypriots in the process and disregarding the community’s concerns would severely undermine confidence in the EU.

Even at this early stage, the uncertainty surrounding the Schengen accession process could slow down investment decisions, reduce foreign trade ambitions, and negatively impact entrepreneurial motivation, Ergüven said, describing the situation as a serious risk for economic stakeholders.

“No Major Concerns Foreseen for Movement of Goods at Checkpoints”

Ergüven emphasised that the Green Line Regulation cannot simply be rendered ineffective, as it is an official EU instrument governing the movement of people, goods, and services from the north to the south. He underlined that it is important not to conflate the scope of the Green Line Regulation with that of the Schengen regime.

While uncertainties remain about the future implementation of Schengen rules, Ergüven noted that the movement of goods and individuals is regulated separately under the Green Line Regulation. For this reason, he said that no major disruptions are anticipated at the checkpoints in terms of goods crossing, though the overall process still carries uncertainty.

“We Have Requested a Meeting With EU Officials to Discuss Our Expectations and Concerns”

Ergüven highlighted the KTTO’s ongoing direct contact with the European Union since 2004. He stated that the Chamber has worked closely with the EU on the implementation of the Green Line Regulation and that this cooperation carries international recognition. The KTTO has now formally requested a meeting with EU officials to address all concerns and expectations related to the Schengen issue.