Written question – Cooperation between the coastguards of Cyprus and Syria – P-001889/2025

Priority question for written answer  P-001889/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Özlem Demirel (The Left)

Cyprus is engaged in a new form of cooperation with Syria that involves boat refugees being returned directly to the Syrian port of Tartus before they reach Cypriot territorial waters. Such action, which prevents asylum applications from being made and examined, is banned under international law because it constitutes refoulement at sea.

• 1.What does the Commission know about Cyprus’ new refoulement practice, and to what extent was it informed in advance or even involved in bringing the practice about?
• 2.Does the Commission consider that the relevant agreement between Cyprus and Syria is covered by EU law?
• 3.What efforts is the Commission making to build up and equip the Syrian coastguard, and what structures are already known about in this connection?

Submitted: 12.5.2025