The European Commission, through its spokesperson Louise Bozi, noted today that the Executive Vice President of the European Commission and EU Special Representative for Cyprus, Raffaele Fito, will reach out to all relevant stakeholders and negotiating partners in order to lay the groundwork for the resumption of negotiations and to support a comprehensive and sustainable solution, among other things, by building trust among all parties and interlocutors, clarifying that this applies specifically to the two Cypriot communities.

Speaking during the midday press briefing, the spokesperson responded to a question regarding allegations by the Turkish Cypriot side that it had not been informed in advance of Mr. Fito’s appointment, and to claims that the EU is not cooperating with one of the two sides. The spokesperson replied that “the EU remains firmly committed to the reunification of Cyprus in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the EU’s principles, values, and legislation.”

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He added that Mr. Fito, as Special Representative for Cyprus, “will contribute to the settlement process within the UN framework, in close cooperation with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Cyprus, María Ángela Olguín Cuellar,” noting that his appointment was also based on extensive consultations with the relevant parties.

For his part, the Commission’s deputy spokesperson, Olof Gil, described Mr. Fito as “an experienced politician with a wealth of relevant experience in governance, regional cooperation, and institutional dialogue,” emphasizing that he was appointed “because we believe he has the skills and experience to move things forward,” a commitment that, as he said, remains a priority for the European Union.

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The questions did not reveal any developments on the part of the Commission regarding possible meetings between Mr. Fito and the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on the Cyprus issue, María Ángela Olguín. However, diplomatic sources told CNA that such a meeting might take place in July.

The same sources highlighted the significance of choosing Mr. Fito, his close ties to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as well as the influence he wields over his colleagues. Furthermore, they pointed out that his knowledge of European affairs and human geography will allow him to quickly build his team and begin collaborating with Ms. Olgin, contributing his expertise on European issues.

Source: CNA