Brussels: EU Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, expressed support for Cyprus’ efforts regarding its participation in the Schengen area. This announcement followed a meeting with Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Nicholas Ioannides, held on Wednesday in Brussels.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Brunner shared details of the meeting in a post on X, stating that the discussions focused on Cyprus’ priorities for its Presidency in the first half of 2026. The meeting also coincided with the final phase of implementing the Pact on Migration and Asylum and efforts to advance the adoption of a new Returns proposal.
Brunner elaborated on Cyprus’ path towards full Schengen participation, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to supporting Cyprus in achieving technical preparedness across all necessary areas. He highlighted the importance of ensuring compliance with smart border-control systems and promoting best practices, particularly in the area of returns.
An EU source who spoke to CNA noted the positive atmosphere of the meeting and commended the good cooperation with Cyprus at a technical level.