Cyprus to block progress for Turkish EU path - Official

The government today said Cyprus has given notice to all other European Union countries of its intention to block further progress in Turkey's negotiations to join the European Union.

The Government spokesman confirmed a state television report last night, that a letter by written by President Demetris Christofias outlining the action, to was sent all other European heads of state or governments.

The revelation comes ahead of next month's European Council, which will evaluate Turkey's progress.

The spokesman said that the letter asks that Turkey honours its commitments under an agreement with the European Union, requiring Ankara to extend recognition to all 10 states which joined the block in 2004.

He also states that Ankara must be more forthcoming on the Cyprus problem and contribute in a practical way to the solution of the Cyprus problem.

He further says that if Turkey does not change its stance on those two issues until the European Council meeting in December, sanctions must be imposed on Turkey regarding its negotiations to join the European Union.

The spokesman conceded there are different approaches on the issue of sanctions among the EU member countries but he said that if there is not a common position of the block, Cyprus will act unilaterally to defend its dignity.