Since negotiations began in October 2005 only 13 of the 35 chapters have been opened, with
just one provisionally closed. Eighteen chapters are frozen due to vetoes by Cyprus, France or
the European Council as a whole, with only three chapters remaining competition policy, social
policy and employment, and public procurement.While the French block a handful for political reas
ons the majority are blocked due to Turkey’s failure to meet its Customs Union obligations fully
visàvis Cyprus. Until now Turkey has refused to do this, until the EU delivers on its own “promi
ses”, in line with the unanimous decision of the EU Council of 26 April 2004, to the Turkish Cypriot
s. This was made following the 2004 UN Annan Plan Referendum for the reunification of Cyprus, wh
en Turkish Cypriots voted “yes” while Greek Cypriots voted “no” only for Cyprus to become an EU
member a week later. As something of a consolation prize the EU offered the Turkish Cyprio
ts an economic package including a Direct Trade Regulation. However, the Regulation has never mater
ialised due to Greek Cypriot opposition. The Greek Cypriots view it as a step towards recognitio
n of the Turkish Cypriot administration.