The Head of the European Economic and Social Committee, Séamus Boland, praised Cyprus as it is getting ready to assume the EU Presidency on 1 January, 2026 noting that it is doing so with experience, competence and a clear European vision.
The EESC Head made statements at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia on 19 November, in the presence of President Nikos Christodoulides and the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, as the Committee's Bureau convenes in Cyprus ahead of the EU Presidency.
"The EESC is fully committed to supporting the Presidency in moving forward Europe’s priorities and ensuring progress for all its citizens," Boland said.
He also noted that today at the south-eastern edge of the EU, Cyprus stands as a gateway to the Middle East and as a pillar of Europe’s presence and democratic values.
The EESC Head also noted that today, Cyprus remains the only divided EU member state. He said that the nine crossing points along the Green Line are bridges of trust and hope and that the EU and the UN continue to call for a bizonal, bicommunal federation, underlining that the EESC has consistently supported this approach and promotes dialogue within the UN framework.
"Not surprisingly, Cyprus’s geopolitical importance is increasing amid the instability in the Middle East. Its proximity to Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, places it at the forefront of EU foreign, security, migration, and humanitarian policies. Despite these pressures, Cyprus acts with solidarity, supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and offering refuge to those fleeing conflict", he noted.
In his address, Boland also pointed out that energy and regional cooperation are also key elements in current geo-political discussions, adding that natural gas in Cyprus’s 'Exclusive Economic Zone offers potential for diversification and sustainable growth.
He added that participation in the East Mediterranean Gas Forum demonstrates how energy can drive dialogue and interdependence.
He also described Cyprus economy as a dynamic one, driven by tourism, services and innovation, which provides a strong foundation for progress.
He assured President Christodoulides that EESC stands ready to join forces with the Cyprus Presidency in order to eradicate poverty, make housing affordable, deliver on the Migration Pact with humanity and fairness and champion water resilience through our Blue Deal.
"Together, we can build a Europe that is not only stronger and safer, but more compassionate — a Europe that listens, protects, and believes again in the power of its people. So let us work closely together, the EESC and the Cypriot Presidency, to deliver results that strengthen Europe’s unity, resilience and social cohesion," he concluded.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.
(Source: CNA)
