Cyprus will leverage its geographical position to boost relations between the European Union and Middle Eastern countries during its six-month presidency of the Council of the EU, announced President Nikos Christodoulides on Thursday.
- He underscored that these factors provide both responsibility and added value for Europe and the Middle East, reflecting Cyprus's unique role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation.
President Christodoulides emphasised that the Republic of Cyprus is committed to not only continuing but also significantly strengthening efforts to foster closer ties between the EU and the broader Middle East region. He stated, “We will do so by leveraging our geographical position, our political credibility, and our longstanding knowledge of the specificities of the region.”
He underscored that these factors provide both responsibility and added value for Europe and the Middle East, reflecting Cyprus’s unique role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation.
The significance of this initiative was highlighted during the opening ceremony of Cyprus’s presidency, where leaders from the EU and numerous Middle Eastern nations gathered. This event symbolised Cyprus’s role as a critical point of reference for discussions between Europe and the region.
Christodoulides expressed particular satisfaction regarding the EU-Jordan summit taking place in Amman, noting that it follows the EU-Egypt summit held in Brussels last October. “These summits confirm the gradual but substantial upgrading of cooperation between Europe and the region, for which we, the Republic of Cyprus, have worked consistently and with dedication,” he remarked.
He attached great importance to the joint visit of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa to Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, viewing it as a vital step in promoting a structured relationship between the EU and these nations.
Looking ahead, Cyprus plans to host an informal meeting of EU member state leaders and neighbouring country representatives in April. This gathering aims to align the EU’s efforts with tangible actions concerning its relationships within the Middle East.
“Cyprus will continue to play an active and responsible role in promoting these efforts, especially during its presidency of the Council of the EU,” Christodoulides affirmed. He expressed confidence that with commitment and consistency, Cyprus will contribute to establishing a framework for meaningful dialogue and cooperation aimed at stability, security, and progress for both Europe and the wider region.
