Brussels: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, addressed the European Parliament's Development Committee (DEVE) on Wednesday, outlining the Cyprus Presidency's priorities for the Council of the EU in various sectors including development cooperation and humanitarian assistance.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Minister Kombos emphasized the necessity of integrating complex fragility into the core of development and humanitarian agendas. He argued for a development-centered approach that balances immediate humanitarian needs with long-term structural support amidst a backdrop of crisis and instability. He highlighted the importance of maintaining strong leadership to meet rising expectations and tightening budgets.
Minister Kombos pointed out that over two billion people reside in fragile, conflict-affected areas, with poverty, inequality, and instability interlinked and affecting global and regional stability, including Europe's security. He commended DEVE's consistent advocacy for development cooperation and fragility management, urging the EU to lead by example.
He detailed thematic priorities such as water security, resilient health systems, and women's empowerment, focusing on regions like the Southern Neighborhood and Sub-Saharan Africa. Minister Kombos also stressed the significance of local ownership, equitable partnerships, and the nexus between humanitarian aid, development, and peace.
Discussing the External Action Guarantee (EAG), he acknowledged the collaborative spirit of recent negotiations and the vital role of the DEVE and AFET Committees, aiming to enhance the EAG's efficiency and compatibility with EU objectives. With a compromise reached, he expressed hope for swift formal approval, ensuring continuity for partners and implementing bodies.
Minister Kombos highlighted the Global Gateway initiative as the EU's flagship strategy for sustainable investment, promoting governance, transparency, and private sector mobilization. He called for a 360-degree approach integrating development, economic, geopolitical, and security considerations.
He praised the European Parliament's role in Global Gateway and stressed the need for a credible and predictable external financing instrument in the next Multiannual Financial Framework. The Minister emphasized the importance of a Partial General Approach by June to facilitate interinstitutional negotiations.
Addressing humanitarian challenges, he underscored the EU's role as a principled humanitarian actor, focusing on civilian protection and infrastructure security. He pointed out the cross-border crisis and violations of international humanitarian law, advocating for strengthened humanitarian diplomacy.
Minister Kombos pledged to keep the 'Humanitarian Reset' high on the agenda, supporting EU efforts to enhance efficiency and accountability while maintaining humanitarian principles. He underlined the importance of preparedness and anticipatory action through risk-informed approaches and early warning systems.
Geographically, he highlighted Africa and the Middle East, focusing on conflict and climate-related crises in regions like the Sahel and Gaza. He stressed the need for sustained EU engagement and a reinforced Team Europe approach.
Concluding, Minister Kombos affirmed Cyprus's commitment to contributing to a coherent, principled, and effective European humanitarian response, in collaboration with the European Parliament and global partners.