Brussels: Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency will prioritize ensuring continued EU support for Ukraine, as stated by Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos during his participation in an EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting in Brussels. On the sidelines of the FAC, Kombos also met with Johannes Hahn, the EU Envoy for the Cyprus issue, according to a press release from the Ministry.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the FAC agenda encompassed discussions on various pressing global issues, including Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, the Middle East situation, and developments in the Sahel and Sudan. An informal lunch on EU-ASEAN relations, attended by ministers from Southeast Asian Nations, was also part of the day’s events.
In his remarks about Ukraine, Kombos reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. He emphasized that during the Cypriot Presidency, efforts would be made to ensure the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine. Kombos highlighted
Cyprus’ backing for a new sanctions package and stressed the need to address the shadow fleet phenomenon and the circumvention of sanctions by third countries.
Addressing Middle East concerns, Kombos welcomed the UN Security Council Resolution regarding President Trump’s plan for Gaza. He briefed his counterparts on discussions held in the United States and Israel related to President Nikos Christodoulides’ six-point plan focusing on humanitarian assistance, security, and recovery. He underscored the critical importance of maintaining the ceasefire amidst the unstable situation in Gaza and called for enhanced EU engagement at multiple levels.
In his comments about Sudan, Kombos expressed alarm at the deteriorating humanitarian situation and emphasized the EU’s potential role in protecting civilians and developing infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of supporting the QUAD’s efforts for an immediate ceasefire and the UN’s further involvement. Kombos also addressed maritime security challenges in the
Red Sea, noting their significant impact on the EU.
Upon concluding the Council’s work, Minister Kombos is set to participate in the Donors’ Conference for Palestine and attend a dinner at the EU-Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum later in the evening.