The Republic of Cyprus is laying the groundwork for NATO membership. Speaking during the presentation of the report on the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the President of the Republic emphasized that joining the military defense alliance remains a goal and an aspiration; however, in order for this to be formalized as an official expression of interest, it must first be ensured that the outcome will be positive.

“Until the political conditions for such a development are in place, we are preparing in other areas, because it’s not just a matter of applying to join NATO; you must be ready administratively, operationally, and in many other areas. And we have already begun this preparation.” ^{Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic}

All this, at a time when AKEL doesn’t even want to hear about NATO, let alone any involvement of NATO in resolving the Cyprus issue, as Stefanos Stefanou pointed out while speaking to European diplomats.

“Those who are considering NATO’s involvement in the Cyprus issue will have to make their plans without AKEL.” ^{Stefanos Stefanou, AKEL Secretary-General}

Defense and Security

At a time, however, when the security of the European continent is being tested, Nicosia insists on bringing Article 42.7 to the forefront. One of the legacies of the Cypriot Presidency presented today at the Conference Center.

“We will continue to insist. There are statements by the President of the Commission from precisely this point where she referred this issue to the relevant Commissioner, the Commissioner for Defense.” ^{Konstantinos Kompos, Minister of Foreign Affairs}

Among the most significant achievements of the Cypriot Presidency was the strengthening of competitiveness through the promotion of initiatives aimed, among other things, at reducing bureaucracy and facilitating investment, the establishment of a mature negotiating framework for the new Multiannual Financial Framework, and agreements to strengthen air passenger rights and ensure access to essential medicines.

“We are emerging from the Presidency stronger, with a more powerful voice, and with relationships built on trust with every Member State and every institution.” ^{Marilena Raouna, Deputy Minister for European Affairs}

During the Presidency, Cyprus hosted over 230 events, with nearly 25,000 participants.

See the report by Rafaella Stavrinou