The European Peoples’ Party (EPP) has applauded Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides for his committed efforts to resume the negotiations for the reunification of Cyprus and his proposal for an enhanced EU role in the talks. In a statement it issued on Thursday after the conclusion of the EPP Summit that took place in Brussels, it says that “the EPP also applauds the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, for his committed efforts to resume negotiations on the Cyprus issue and his proposal for an enhanced EU role in these talks”. President Christodoulides participated in the EPP Summit at the invitation of its President Manfred Weber. Earlier on, President Christodoulides briefed the EPP leaders about his approach on the Cyprus issue. The Cypriot Democratic Rally party (DISY) was represented by its President Annita Demetriou. In its statement, the EPP says that the geopolitical tensions arising from Russia’s unprovoked war against Ukraine, the weaponisation of energy and food supplies combined with China’s more aggressive stance and the growing global technology race in the context of green and digital transitions are putting the EU’s global influence and competitiveness to the test. Noting that Europe needs more sustained and ambitious efforts to become an attractive investment destination and a world leader for the innovation of the future, it says that a competitive Europe also means a secure Europe. “Europe must be open to the world, while at the same time protect its borders. We need to fight smugglers and prevent people risking their lives in the Mediterranean Sea. We must strengthen the security at our external borders, with integrated border management, including stationary and mobile infrastructure,” the EPP statement reads. This will allow, it notes, effective control of the EU’s external borders, prevent neighbouring countries from weaponizing migrants against the Union, and ensure migrants have their fundamental rights respected. “This includes the deployment of Frontex, as well as a new European mission for the Mediterranean to fight smugglers and to rescue people whose lives are in danger. Finally, we need to urgently complete the Asylum and Migration Pact and provide a solution that reconciles solidarity and responsibility” it adds. 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. President Christodoulides told CNA earlier on Thursday in Brussels that the deadlock at the Cyprus issue can be broken through a leading EU role, with a political personality who will undertake this role.
Source: Cyprus News Agency