The solidarity of all EU member states is needed to turn Cyprus into a success story, in a time of increasing internal and external challenges, President Nicos Anastasiades said on Thursday during his speech at the European People’s Party (EPP) conference in Malta.
“What is required for a settlement is that it should be in full conformity with the European Union values, principles, and acquis,” he added.
The President noted that a viable settlement of the Cyprus issue would be an end to the “oxymoron of having one of having one of its member-states being forcibly divided with the presence of foreign troops on its soil, and will, at the same time, enhance Cyprus’ role as security provider in the south-eastern Mediterranean region.”
“A viable and lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem would be to the best interests not only of the Greek and Turkish Cypriots but also of Europe and its future,” he noted.
He added that Cyprus needs to maintain both an independent foreign policy and its effective participation on decision-making within the Union, with the aim not to negatively affect the positive role assumed in the overall security architecture of the EU.
“Therefore, in times of increasing internal and external challenges for Europe, I do call on your substantial unity and solidarity so as to turn Cyprus into one of EU’s success story, conveying the message both to our immediate neighbourhood and internationally as to the dynamic potential of our collective strength and what this historic and unique Union of countries represents: ‘United in diversity’,” he said.
On Wednesday the EPP Congress adopted a resolution, which made reference to the Cyprus problem and the need for a solution.
The resolution stated: “The EPP reiterates its support to the process for a comprehensive and viable settlement of the Cyprus problem, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and fully in line with EU law, values and principles. In this respect, the EPP, underlining that the 42 year division and military occupation imposed by Turkey on the Republic of Cyprus must cease and expresses its deep regret for the current standstill in the negotiations. As such, it calls on Turkey and the Turkish-Cypriot leader to resume the negotiating process in order to maintain the momentum, build on the progress achieved these past twenty-two months, and continue work on all remaining issues, including on the key chapters of security and guarantees.”
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