Nicosia: The full accession of the Republic of Cyprus to the Schengen area has been declared a “national goal” by Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, who emphasized the country’s commitment to joining without concessions to the EU acquis or recognition of the Green Line as an external EU border. Kombos made these statements during a meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, where new legislation for a National Visa Information System (VIS) was being reviewed. This legislation aims to align Cyprus with Schengen rules and connect it to the central EU VIS once approved by the EU Council.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kombos highlighted that Cyprus’s membership in the EU obliges it to join the Schengen Area, despite significant technical challenges. He acknowledged that prior political developments and crises had delayed the process, with a belief that the challenges were insurmountable. However, he saw an opportunity in the current geopolitical climate, despite the ongoing Turkish invasion and occupation. The effort requires coordination among multiple ministries, and since 2019, Cyprus has undergone evaluations in six areas to ensure compliance.
A recent evaluation by the European Commission noted “significant progress,” and Kombos expressed the aim of obtaining a positive recommendation to advance to the political phase, which would require unanimous approval by all EU member states. He stressed that Cyprus does not seek special treatment and regards the European Commission as a key partner, with ongoing discussions with the responsible Commissioner.
Regarding the Green Line, Kombos asserted that Cyprus will “never accept” it as an external border. Under EU law, the Green Line is not considered an external border, as per Protocol 10 of the Accession Treaty and the Green Line Regulation, which mandates effective checks. Cyprus remains responsible for controlling illegal migration and other issues, which will continue post-Schengen accession.
Kombos also highlighted the potential benefits for Cypriot citizens, including Turkish Cypriots, particularly in terms of travel and economic impact. He dismissed the notion of “commercializing” Schengen accession, emphasizing the national effort to uphold Cyprus’s reputation. He acknowledged political challenges when the matter reaches EU member states, admitting that Cyprus is “paying the price” for not prioritizing Schengen membership earlier.
Initiatives to engage with key member states have begun, with this year being critical due to the 40th anniversary of the Schengen area, Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency in 2026, and the assessment of the responsible EU Commissioner. Kombos argued that the Schengen Area “cannot be complete” without Cyprus’s participation, given its strategic position at the EU’s southeastern edge, and emphasized that accession is fair and beneficial for the EU.
Finally, Kombos expressed hope for broad political support for Cyprus’s Schengen accession efforts. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite multiple UN-led peace negotiations, a resolution has yet to be reached. Cyprus joined the EU on May 1, 2004, but unlike most member states, it has not yet joined the Schengen Area, which currently includes 25 EU countries and 4 non-EU nations.