Cyprus and Greece Welcome EU-Turkey Moves to Strengthen Relations

NEWS DESK

1 year ago

Greek Prime Minister and Cyprus President express optimism as the EU and Turkey initiate consultations to promote positive relations

NICOSIA: In a joint press conference held at the Presidential Palace, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides hailed the recent steps taken by the EU and Turkey to engage in consultations aimed at enhancing their relations. The announcement came during Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ official visit to Cyprus.

Both leaders welcomed the rapprochement between the EU and Turkey, emphasizing the significance of a gradual and reversible process. They expressed hope that this development would pave the way for a Cyprus solution, ending the decades-long division resulting from the Turkish military operation in 1974.

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During the press conference, President Christodoulides stressed that accepting a positive agenda by the EU in relation to Turkey would be contingent upon positive moves from Turkey concerning Cyprus. In particular, they highlighted the importance of Turkey accepting a restart of the Cyprus peace negotiations in line with UN Security Council resolutions.

In a display of goodwill and cooperation, the leaders also discussed ways to support Turkey’s efforts in strengthening its relations with the EU. Among the topics were proposals for a visa concession for Turkish nationals visiting EU countries and an upgrade of the EU-Turkey customs union.

Furthermore, the two nations explored possibilities for deepening their bilateral relations at the upcoming meeting of the newly formed Supreme Cooperation Council of Greece and Cyprus. This council will convene with the participation of leaders and ministers from both countries, aiming to bolster ties across various sectors.

In a touching gesture of friendship and solidarity, President Christodoulides announced that Cyprus would cover the cost of reforestation for parts of the forest land devastated by wildfires on the Greek island of Rhodes last week.

The positive stance taken by Cyprus and Greece reflects a shared commitment to fostering regional stability and cooperation. As the EU-Turkey consultations progress, the international community awaits further developments, hopeful for a new era of constructive engagement in the region.

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