In 1974 Greek colonels made a wrong move in Cyprus and Turkey as a guarantor power had to intervene. In 1983 Turkey recognized the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. In 2004, when the Annan Plan was under discussion, the Turkish Cypriots in the referendum voted positively and the Greek Cypriots voted negatively. Still, the Greek Cypriots joined the European Union. The Turkish Cypriots were suffering from the isolations imposed upon them.

It was under these conditions that the Additional  Protocol was signed in 2005. It was very obvious to everyone that Turkey would not relinquish the Turkish Cypriots. Indeed, Turkey made a declaration, stating that it continues to recognise the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and consequently the signing of the Additional Protocol does not in anyway mean the recognition of the Greek Cypriot Administration. In the following period, Turkey made several proposals to the effect that in case the isolation of the Turkish Cypriots would be ended,Turkey would open its ports and airports to the Greek Cypriot vessels. These proposals have not received any positive answer. This is the position as of 2011. Under the circumstances, it would not be fair to expect  the imple-mentation of the Additional Protocol.