Brussels: Acting Director-General in the Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support at the European Commission, Judit Rozsa, stressed the need to foster a positive environment to revive peace negotiations in Cyprus. Speaking at an event hosted by the Left group in the European Parliament on Wednesday in Brussels, Rozsa emphasized the importance of showing Turkish Cypriots that the willingness for progress exists.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Rozsa said that it’s vital to demonstrate to ordinary Turkish Cypriots that there is determination on the Greek Cypriot side, creating a conducive atmosphere for dialogue. Speaking during the event, titled ‘Cyprus Peace Process: The Way Forward,’ she also highlighted that many Turkish Cypriots and their organizations continue to support EU integration and reunification, urging greater engagement with them to mobilize support for the peace process.
Rozsa reaffirmed the European Commission’s readiness to assist if negotiations resume, to creating a positive env
ironment and supporting discussions. She noted the European Parliament’s vital role in the process and expressed optimism about recent developments, including possible agreements on new crossing points and new meetings following the New York informal meeting between President Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar.
“These meetings could be the first step toward formal negotiations,” Rozsa noted, reiterating the EU’s commitment to a comprehensive solution based on United Nations parameters and EU law.
Rozsa also emphasized that while external support was essential, the primary responsibility lies with the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities to drive the process forward.
She also referred to EU-funded projects such as a bicommunal trade information office and financial aid to help Turkish Cypriot small businesses meet EU standards.
Rozsa pointed to innovative proposals like a solar energy park in the Green Line buffer zone, which aims to foster energy collaboration, support the gre
en transition, and address shared concerns about climate change and electricity costs.
Rozsa praised the EU’s ongoing support for reconciliation efforts, including funding for the Committee on Missing Persons, restoring cultural heritage sites, and bolstering bicommunal committees. She noted these initiatives as crucial for building trust and fostering cooperation between the two communities.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.