Turkey has reacted with concern to reports that France and the Republic of Cyprus are set to sign an agreement on the presence of French forces on the island, according to Turkish newspaper Milliyet.
The report states that the planned agreement was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron and President Nikos Christodoulides.
According to the newspaper, experts it cites argue that, under the 1960 system of guarantees, such a move cannot be implemented without consultation with the Turkish Cypriot side.
Professor Hasan Ünal is quoted as saying that France’s move is largely political and psychological in nature, rather than of substantial military significance. He argues that Paris is seeking to project the image of an alliance with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus, particularly through arms sales and defence cooperation.
He adds that the presence of a limited number of French military personnel for training purposes would not alter the strategic balance, given Turkey’s geographical proximity and military strength.
Retired ambassador Uluç Özülker also maintains that a French presence in Cyprus could not realistically translate into direct military action against Turkey. However, he warns that such developments carry the potential to heighten tensions, as they are perceived in Ankara as an indirect signal.
Meanwhile, retired lieutenant general Güray Alpar suggests that the presence of forces from third countries, beyond the guarantor powers, could pose risks to the island’s security. In his view, France is aiming to strengthen its political influence, support arms exports and secure its interests in the eastern Mediterranean, particularly in relation to hydrocarbons.
Source: CNA