Director-General of the European Commission’s DG REFORM Judit Rózsa called on Cypriot leaders to demonstrate leadership, flexibility, and a willingness to compromise, stating that building trust and fostering a positive climate are critical preconditions for success. Speaking during a panel discussion titled “Can Cyprus reunification talks regain momentum” during the 20th Cyprus Summit organised by Economist, she also noted that measures such as opening new crossing points and improving living conditions for both communities could send strong signals of progress.
“The UN’s current efforts, especially those of Secretary-General António Guterres, are remarkable given the global challenges. Cyprus must seize this opportunity,” she said. She also referred to the work of the UN envoy, Olivia Hoggins, who helped inject new momentum into the process earlier this year.
She also emphasised the vital role of civil society in the Cyprus reconciliation and settlement process. She called for greater engagement and structured participation from civil society organizations to foster trust and create conditions conducive to reunification.
While civil society in Cyprus has made strides, Rózsa noted that it has not yet become a driving force. She cited positive examples, such as the Cyprus Dialogue Forum, which brings together 80 stakeholders from both communities to create joint mechanisms for reconciliation. She also highlighted the recently founded Cyprus Women’s Bicommunal Coalition, a group of high-level women advocating for a solution to the Cyprus problem based on the UN framework.
Rózsa praised recent developments in the Cyprus settlement process, including the informal UN Secretary-General-hosted dinner in October and upcoming meetings aimed at exploring new crossing points and broader cooperation. She pointed out the European Union’s full support for these efforts and its readiness to assist through all available means.
“Our hope is that these steps will lead to the resumption of negotiations under the UN framework, ultimately resulting in Cyprus’ reunification. However, this process must remain Cyprus-led and Cyprus-owned,” she added.
Rózsa expressed hope that 2024 could mark the start of the final push toward Cyprus reunification. She pointed to improving EU-Turkey relations and a warming relationship between Greece and Turkey as favourable factors.
She also noted that the EU stands fully behind these developments and is ready to contribute, ensuring that any final agreement complies with EU law,” and added that the European Commission’s expertise will be instrumental.
Also read: Water Framework Directive: EU pressures Cyprus to comply
Source: CNA/TNE/EPH
