Thessaloniki: Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Nicholas Ioannides, emphasized the need to transform migration challenges into opportunities that benefit both citizens and the state. Speaking at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki during a conference titled 'The Republic of Cyprus and the European Union: Challenges and Achievements,' Ioannides highlighted the significance of migration management within the European Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ioannides underscored the importance of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, viewing it as a critical tool for strengthening the management of the EU's external borders. The pact aims to ensure that only those eligible for international protection or holding valid work permits will enter the EU, curbing illegal trafficking by smugglers.
Ioannides further elaborated on the pact's provisions for expedited and effective asylum procedures, stressing the necessity for applications to be handled quickly, fairly, and reliably. He reiterated that respect for European and international law and fundamental rights remains central to the new framework. "Europe remains the continent of freedoms and justice," he stated, emphasizing the EU's responsibility to balance effectiveness with legitimacy.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the new framework's attempt to balance responsibility and solidarity, particularly for frontline member states like Cyprus and Greece. He noted that these states should not bear an undue burden, with the pact providing mechanisms for a collective European response. With Cyprus's unique challenges as a small island state partly occupied by Turkey, Ioannides stressed the importance of shared responsibility.
The implementation of the pact, according to Ioannides, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Cyprus, which has long advocated for a coordinated EU approach to the refugee issue. He highlighted ongoing efforts by the Deputy Ministry to prepare for the pact's implementation, including strengthening services, investing in human resources, and upgrading infrastructure and procedures.
The timing of the pact's implementation coincides with Cyprus's Presidency of the Council of the EU, further elevating its significance. Ioannides emphasized the importance of the Return Regulation, a legislative act under negotiation, which aims to increase the returns of third-country nationals not entitled to remain in the EU.
Ioannides pointed out that effective returns are crucial for a credible common migration policy, as incomplete procedures exert pressure on services and undermine public trust. As the country holding the Council Presidency, Cyprus represents all 27 member states in negotiations with the European Parliament and Commission, with hopes of reaching an agreement before the presidency concludes.
At the national level, Cyprus has made strides in reducing irregular migration flows and increasing departures of third-country nationals, achieving a significant decrease in irregular flows in early 2026 compared to previous years. Ioannides reiterated Cyprus's commitment to converting migration from a challenge into a beneficial solution, while respecting international obligations.
Ioannides concluded by asserting that the true value of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum will be realized upon its implementation, which will test the EU's ability to operate with cohesion, credibility, and fair responsibility distribution. Cyprus approaches the pact methodically, aiming to create a more functional and resilient system that serves member states and those genuinely in need of protection.