Nicosia: The Cypriot public administration will be the engine driving the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, according to President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. He expressed confidence that Cyprus would succeed as it did in 2012, during a book presentation at the Presidential Palace.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized the necessity for ongoing reforms, modernization of institutions, and simplification of procedures. He highlighted that these reforms are essential for the economic and social development of Cyprus and a top priority for his governance.
The President urged Cypriots to view reforms not with fear, but as a vehicle for modernization and reconstruction. He reflected on Cyprus’s 65 years of independence and its accession to the European Union 21 years ago, which he described as a catalyst for the country’s transformation.
Addressing concerns from Turkish Cypriots about possible Greek Cypriot dominance, President Christodoulides ass
ured that the European Union serves as a safeguard for resolving the Cyprus issue and implementing any potential solutions. He reiterated that Cyprus’s integration into the EU brought significant structural changes, enhancing the nation’s economic and social development.
Cyprus remains divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern third of the island. Despite multiple rounds of UN-led peace talks, the conflict remains unresolved, with the last negotiations in 2017 ending without agreement.