Antonio Costa’s visit to Nicosia reaffirmed Brussels’ strong support regarding the Cyprus issue.
At the same time, it once again provided an opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of the European Union Presidency.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The Cyprus issue and the multiannual financial framework were at the top of the agenda during António Costa’s visit to Nicosia. During his meeting with President Christodoulides, the Portuguese official reiterated Brussels’ readiness to assist in any way possible with the UN Secretary-General’s new initiative on the Cyprus issue.
“We naturally respect the framework that has been established for the negotiations, but both President von der Leyen and I have already conveyed to the President of Turkey that we are ready to help and to contribute positively to the resolution of this issue, while at the same time strengthening the European Union’s bilateral relations with Turkey.” António Costa, President of the European Council
And for Nikos Christodoulides to convey, on the occasion of his visit to Ankara and the occupied territories, that the European Union has both a role and a say in the negotiations for a solution.
“On many of the issues where, so far, there has been no convergence but rather disagreements and divergences, the solution lies in the European acquis.” Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic
With the support of Brussels, Guterres is currently waiting to see progress in the negotiations between the leaders so that he can announce dates for an informal five-party meeting.
To that end, María Olgín will finally arrive in Cyprus on September 10.
The Colombian envoy will therefore not be able to attend next Wednesday’s meeting, but she will remain in Cyprus for at least one week, and in the coming days, she is also expected to meet with the UN Secretary-General.
A Response Laced with Threats
However, just as Europe… is courting Turkey, Ankara is reacting with fury against the European Parliament.
The trigger was the inclusion in the 2027 budget of funds for the construction of a memorial to women who suffered sexual violence during the 1974 Turkish invasion.
“What is expected of the European Union’s institutions is not to pave the way for the application of a one-sided political rhetoric on the Cyprus issue, but to adopt a fair and constructive approach that takes into account the realities on the island and respects the rights of both sides.” Burhanettin Duran, Head of Communications for the Turkish Presidency
Describing the decision as unacceptable.
Cyprus Issue and Military Bases
Konstantinos Kombou’s visit to London is also considered highly significant.
The Foreign Minister discussed the latest developments in the Cyprus issue, seeking the support of the guarantor power for the efforts being made, while also raising the issue of the military bases.
Nicosia is seeking to establish an institutionalized, structured dialogue, and London has responded that this could begin toward the end of the year.
Watch the report by Giorgos Georgiadis
