President Nikos Christodoulides is holding his first meeting on Friday morning with the European Commission’s Special Representative for Cyprus, Raffaele Fitto, at the Presidential Palace.
Fitto arrived in Cyprus on Thursday and is also expected to meet Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman later on Friday.
EU role in Cyprus talks gains momentum
Speaking at Thursday’s Cabinet meeting, President Christodoulides briefed ministers on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus issue following the visit of UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
He said the European Union’s role in efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue is now accepted by all parties, describing it as an objective the government had pursued from the outset.
According to the President, the EU’s involvement focuses on two key areas: the substance of a future settlement and EU-Turkey relations, including Turkey’s aspirations in its relationship with the bloc.
Brussels reaffirms commitment
European Commission spokesperson for Cohesion Maciej Berestecki reiterated on Thursday that the EU remains firmly committed to the reunification of Cyprus on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation, in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the EU’s principles, values and legislation.
Regarding the EU’s participation in future negotiations, Berestecki said the Commission is ready to play an active role in the process using all available means and tools and is also prepared to take part in all relevant meetings.
Supporting renewed negotiations
The EU Cyprus envoy will contribute to the UN-led settlement process in close cooperation with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín.
According to the Commission, Fitto will also engage with all relevant stakeholders and interlocutors to help prepare the ground for the resumption of negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting solution for the whole of Cyprus.
Also read: Christodoulides: Cyprus talks preparations to continue throughout August
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
