The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy addressed Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s attendance at the informal summit of the Organisation of Turkic States in Shusha.
In a statement on Saturday by spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Nabila Massrali explained that the participation of the Hungarian Prime Minister, who represented Hungary exclusively within the context of bilateral relations with the Organisation, has sparked a series of clarifications from the European Union.
“Hungary is currently holding the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union until 31 December 2024,” the statement read. “This role does not extend to any external representation of the Union, which remains the responsibility of the President of the European Council at the Head of State or Government level, and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy at Ministerial level.”
The High Representative emphasized that Hungary had not received any mandate from the EU Council to advance relations with the Organisation of Turkic States. This point underscores the distinction between national and EU-level engagements in international affairs.
Moreover, the European Union reiterated its stance on the Organisation of Turkic States’ recognition of the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” as an observer. The EU firmly rejects any attempts by the Organisation to legitimize the Turkish Cypriot secessionist entity, which remains unrecognized internationally.
“This decision, pending ratification by the Organisation’s members, is regrettable,” the statement continued. “It contradicts the principle of territorial integrity and the UN Charter, which several members of the Organisation have previously supported.”
The EU’s position remains unequivocal: only the Republic of Cyprus is recognized as a subject of international law, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolutions. This has been a consistent message conveyed at the highest political levels within the EU.
By Gabriel Ani
