The European Union has expressed “serious concern” after Turkey, as chair of the UN’s annual climate conference, refused to allow the Republic of Cyprus to participate in a meeting held at UN headquarters on March 27.
Cyprus was denied a seat in the conference room, which was chaired by Turkish Environment and Urban Planning Minister Murat Kurum.
The EU later condemned the exclusion during a separate UN session marking International Zero Waste Day.
Turkey defended its decision, citing its long‑standing policy of not recognizing the Republic of Cyprus. A Turkish representative said the meeting was not held under a UN mandate and that the organizer therefore had discretion over invitations.