The EU is ready to contribute positively to a settlement of the Cyprus problem, including through strengthening European Union-Turkey relations, President of the European Council Antonio Costa said on Friday during a joint press conference with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, in Nicosia.
He noted that “a united Europe needs a reunified Cyprus” and expressed his support for the efforts led by the UN Secretary-General to resolve the Cyprus problem through dialogue, stressing that the EU is ready to help and contribute positively by strengthening its bilateral relations with Turkey.
President Nikos Christodoulides said the EU could play “the most decisive role” in resolving the Cyprus problem, as it has the necessary tools, while on issues where differences remain, “the solution is the EU acquis.” He reiterated his readiness for the resumption of talks and sent a message to the UN Secretary-General on the need for a conference in broader format, during which the resumption of negotiations from where they left off would be announced, stressing that all sides would be judged at the negotiating table on the basis of their political will.
The President also raised Cyprus’ desire for full accession to the Schengen area. The two leaders discussed the EU’s new Multiannual Financial Framework, Ukraine, enlargement, competitiveness, defence and security, and migration. Particular reference was also made to the Middle East, with President Christodoulides highlighting Cyprus’ role and its willingness to support efforts to strengthen EU relations with the wider region, while Costa thanked Cyprus for this role.
