The EU is ready to contribute positively to the resolution of the Cyprus issue, among other things by strengthening relations between the European Union and Turkey, said European Council President António Costa on Friday during a joint press conference with President of the Republic Nicos Christodoulides in Nicosia.
He noted that “a united Europe needs a reunified Cyprus” and expressed his support for the UN Secretary-General’s efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue through dialogue, noting that the EU is ready to help and contribute positively by strengthening its bilateral relations with Turkey.
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President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized that the EU can play “the most decisive role” in resolving the Cyprus issue, as it possesses the necessary tools, while on issues where differences remain, “the solution lies in the European acquis.” He reiterated his readiness to resume talks and sent a message to the UN Secretary-General regarding the need for an expanded conference, at which the resumption of negotiations from where they were suspended would be announced, emphasizing that everyone’s political will would be put to the test at the negotiating table.
At the meeting, the President also raised the Republic of Cyprus’s desire for full accession to the Schengen Area, while discussions focused on the EU’s new Multiannual Financial Framework, Ukraine, enlargement, competitiveness, defense and security, and migration. Special mention was made of the Middle East, with President Christodoulides noting Cyprus’s role and its willingness to support efforts to strengthen the EU’s relations with the broader region, while Mr. Costa thanked Cyprus for playing this role.
READ ALSO: Costa to Christodoulides on the Cyprus Issue: “You can always count on the EU’s support” | AlphaNews
