Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letympiotis presented the government’s position on Cyprus’ European trajectory, the upcoming EU Council Presidency, the Cyprus issue, geopolitical developments, and domestic policy matters in an interview on “Protoselido”.
EU Council Presidency: challenge and opportunity
Referring to the President’s recent speech at the European Parliament, Letympiotis highlighted the positive reception from MEPs. They praised both the content of the President’s interventions and Cyprus’ level of preparation for the EU Council Presidency. He added that small member states often invest extra effort in such responsibilities, as they have more to prove. “For Cyprus, this six-month Presidency represents both a challenge and an opportunity,” he said. Preparations began two years ago, and the results of intensive work are already visible.
Letympiotis acknowledged that Cyprus assumes the Presidency in an exceptionally demanding environment. He noted that the European Union as a whole faces multiple challenges amid rapid geopolitical changes. He referred to the recent extraordinary informal European Council at leader level, stressing that the Cypriot Presidency can contribute both diplomatically and institutionally, turning crises into opportunities where possible.
Cyprus as a key player in European integration
The Spokesperson emphasised that European integration passes through Cyprus. He reiterated that the EU possesses the tools to contribute meaningfully to resolving the Cyprus issue, which he described as a European problem.
Since Cyprus joined the EU, efforts to find a solution have improved, thanks to the acquis. Letympiotis noted the positive shift in negotiations, even up to the Crans-Montana process, due to the European dimension.
Regarding EU–Turkey relations, he stressed that Cyprus will not focus solely on national issues. Instead, it will act as an honest broker on behalf of the 27 member states, reflecting its genuine intentions. Nicosia will promote specific EU–Turkey matters within mutual respect and link progress on these issues proportionally to developments on the Cyprus problem. The Presidency can act as a springboard without sidelining efforts to restart negotiations.
International developments and the UN
Letympiotis made clear that the United Nations remains indispensable, particularly concerning Cyprus’ objectives on the Cyprus issue. He explained that, despite initiatives for peace councils or new international processes, respect for international law and Security Council decisions remains non-negotiable. Amid intense geopolitical shifts, the EU must become more coherent, effective, and responsive, resuming its historical role in resolving international crises.
Domestic priorities
On the domestic front, Letympiotis addressed recent political disputes, citing misinformation and deliberate distortions on issues already clarified by competent institutions. He stressed the importance of truth and maintaining the country’s international credibility, which the government has strengthened through bold reforms, initiatives to investigate financial crimes, and coordinated campaigns to attract high-quality investment.
He also mentioned the Independent Social Support Body, clarifying that ongoing discussions concern its evolution, not the cessation of support for students in need. Social support remains a lasting state responsibility, supplemented by the private sector where possible.
Organised crime and public safety
Regarding organised crime and the police, Letympiotis acknowledged that these are complex, longstanding challenges, both nationally and internationally. However, he stressed that public safety remains the state’s top priority.
Evaluations and interventions are underway, both operationally and infrastructurally, with the Central Prisons as a key example. He concluded that all actions are judged by results and context, and the public debate must focus on realism, distinguishing between what can be achieved immediately and what should have been done years ago.
Also read: Cyprus migration policy: deportation for offenders
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