Merkel's Cyprus talk disappoints Turkey FM

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German Chancellor Angela Merkel's recent remarks on the Cyprus issue was a disappointment to Turkey, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Wednesday.
Turkey always wished Germany to play a more active role in the Cyprus issue but Merkel's talk during her visit to Cyprus caused disappointment in Turkey [link widoczny dla zalogowanych], Davutoglu was quoted by the semi- official Anatolia news agency as telling a joint press conference with the visiting Saudi Arabian counterpart Prince Saud al-Faisal in Ankara.
Merkel and Germany had to display an objective stance on Cyprus to be able to contribute to the process of seeking a resolution [link widoczny dla zalogowanych], Davutoglu said.
During her visit to Cyprus Tuesday, Merkel said the Greek Cypriot side had taken steps towards a solution and that "the Turkish side has not been reciprocating."
She said her country backs Cyprus reunification efforts and hopes to see Turkey play a more contributive role in the process.
"Germany could play an important role in the issue of Cyprus. Yet, this crucial role can not take place by listening to only one side in Cyprus. This role could take place by listening to both sides [link widoczny dla zalogowanych]," Davutoglu was quoted as saying.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops occupied the northern part of the Mediterranean island following a coup by a group of Greek Cypriot officers.
The Cyprus issue is a major stumbling block on Turkey's path to EU membership, as Turkey refuses to open ports and airports to the traffic of Greek Cypriot side, which is an EU member.
The EU launched accession talks with Turkey in October 2005 but has only opened 13 chapters, or negotiating areas, out of 35 that are required so far.
Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy oppose accession of Turkey as a full EU member and propose a "privileged relationship" instead, which is refused by Ankara.