Nicosia: ‘We are working hard in order to make 2026 the year of Schengen for Cyprus,’ President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, said, during his meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia on Saturday morning.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Metsola, who is visiting Cyprus at the invitation of President Christodoulides for Europe Day and ahead of Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency in 2026, assured that the European Parliament will continue to support Cyprus. This marks her fourth visit to Cyprus since assuming her role, making it the EU member-state she has visited the most.
President Christodoulides expressed gratitude to Metsola for accepting his invitation to engage with Cyprus’ youth. He highlighted that this meeting is a precursor to Cyprus taking over the EU Council Presidency. He emphasized the goal of having a presidency that promotes integration and autonomy within the EU, stating the European Parliament’s critical role in this endeavor.
The President also addressed the EU’s potential influence in resuming negotiations on the Cyprus issue. He emphasized the EU’s capabilities in facilitating a successful resolution, thanking Metsola for her consistent support.
The President reiterated the ambition to make 2026 the year Cyprus joins Schengen, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Schengen. He sought the European Parliament’s support in achieving this strategic aim.
Metsola, for her part, conveyed her commitment to working with Cyprus towards a promising future. She acknowledged the strong voter turnout in Cyprus during the European Parliament elections as a testament to the country’s commitment to the EU. She reaffirmed the European Parliament’s unwavering support for Cyprus, especially in resolving the Cyprus problem through the U.N. framework.
Metsola also expressed anticipation for Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency, noting the fresh perspective Cyprus will bring. She assured the President of the European Parliament’s unwavering support regarding Schengen, promising to be vocal in their backing.
Following their discussion, Christodoulides and Metsola visited the CYENS Centre of Excellence for an event titled “Your Europe, your Future: A Dialogue with youth” to celebrate Europe’s Day.
Cyprus remains divided since 1974, following an invasion by Turkish troops, which led to the occupation of 37% of its territory.