Brussels:Heads of state or government associated with the European People's Party (EPP) have voiced their support for Cyprus' full accession to the Schengen area. This endorsement was made following the EPP summit held in Brussels on Thursday morning, prior to the European Council meeting. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides was present at the summit.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the EPP leaders also praised the Cypriot government's initiatives to restart substantial negotiations on the Cyprus issue. They welcomed efforts by the UN Secretary-General to hold an expanded meeting that includes all involved parties.
The EPP statement highlighted their offer of a constructive partnership with Turkey, contingent on respect for democracy, the rule of law, and good-neighborly relations. The leaders expressed solidarity with Greece and Cyprus in discussions with Turkey and emphasized the importance of stability and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean under NATO.
Regarding Cyprus' Schengen aspirations, the EPP welcomed the positive outcome from the Commission's Evaluation Report and the initiation of relevant discussions in the Council. They urged timely completion of the remaining steps as part of the Schengen Cycle 2026-2027 priorities.
In economic matters, the EPP called for EU policies that avoid increasing energy costs and advocated for temporary, targeted support for households and businesses. They stressed the need for stronger European competitiveness and suggested reversing the ban on internal combustion engine vehicles, recognizing low-carbon and renewable fuels, and reforming environmental regulations. Simplifying legislation and introducing a horizontal omnibus package on permitting were also recommended.
On migration, the EPP noted a 35% decrease in irregular crossings at the EU's external borders since the start of the year. They attributed this decline to ongoing reforms and advocated for a stronger Frontex, along with leveraging visas, trade, and funding to manage migratory pressures.
Regarding Ukraine, the EPP reiterated their commitment to supporting the country against Russian aggression. They welcomed the acceleration of a £45 billion disbursement under the EU's Ukraine Support Loan and called for opening all remaining negotiating clusters with Ukraine by December 2026.
The EPP leaders also supported efforts to operationalize Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union concerning mutual assistance among Member States and proposed the creation of a European Security Council to enhance strategic coordination and crisis response.
Cyprus remains divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Previous UN-led peace talks have not succeeded, largely due to Turkish intransigence. The latest negotiations in July 2017 in Switzerland ended without resolution. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres plans to convene another meeting after sufficient preparation, with the consensus of both sides and the guarantor powers. María Angela Holguín serves as Guterres' Personal Envoy on Cyprus, while Raffaele Fitto acts as the European Commission's Special Representative for Cyprus.