The reasons why he voted against the European Parliament's report on Turkey were explained by Cypriot MEP Fidias Panagiotou, stating that he disagrees with the prospect of strengthening Euro-Turkish relations while the Cyprus issue remains unresolved.
As he said, he voted against, while most other MEPs chose abstention. He argued that the abstention is not always a solution and that it is often preferable to have a clear position.
Describing his attitude towards the exhibition, used a simulation, saying it reminds him of a woman with whom someone is married, which «goes with other men and lies to you“ But yet there is a desire to continue the marriage.
@fidiaspanayiotouWhy I voted against the Turkey report
♬ original sound - Fidias Panayotou
Phidias Panagiotou argued that does not consider the development of cooperation with Turkey correct without any tangible effect on the Cyprus problem. At the same time, he noted that the European Union has imposed 20 packages of sanctions on Russia due to its invasion, while in the case of Turkey, cooperation is sought.
As he said, he considers this to be an approach with "two metres and two standards“ Which led him to vote against the report.
The Cypriot MEP acknowledged that the report contains many positive elements and condemns Turkey for a series of issues. However, he disagreed with the point which, as he said, supports the strengthening relations with Ankara. For this reason, as he explained, he could neither vote in favour nor choose abstention.
In closing, he stressed that he wanted the Cyprus issue to be directly linked to the Euro-Turkish relations and argued that only after the Cyprus problem has been resolved can the debate be opened on further cooperation with Turkey.