Bratislava:House President Annita Demetriou has urged for distinct and adequate funding allocation for the European Union's Cohesion Policy and Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034. She emphasized that national allocations for these policies should not be compromised in favor of emerging priorities.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Demetriou made these remarks during a meeting of the Speakers of Parliaments of the Visegrad Group (V4) and the Friends of Cohesion in Bratislava, which concluded on Friday. She highlighted that the negotiations on the next EU budget are crucial in shaping the Union's capacity to meet citizens' needs and tackle future challenges.
Demetriou pointed out the proposed additional £5.2 billion in Cohesion Policy funding for member states with gross national income below 90% of the EU average, which was included in the negotiating framework presented during the Cyprus Presidency. She called for this proposal to be retained in the final agreement.
She further stressed that EU competitiveness should coincide with economic, social, and territorial cohesion, warning that increasing regional disparities could undermine the Union's competitiveness. Demetriou also noted Cyprus' unique challenges as a small island member state, including geographical and energy isolation, limited connectivity, higher transport costs, and migration pressures.
Additionally, Demetriou expressed support for the proposed European Competitiveness Fund, emphasizing the importance of equal access to funding opportunities for smaller economies and small and medium-sized enterprises.
The meeting concluded with a joint declaration advocating for an ambitious and adequately funded EU budget, while ensuring solid financing for Cohesion Policy, the CAP, and the Common Fisheries Policy.
On the sidelines, Demetriou met with Croatian Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic, briefing him on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus issue. This included the agreement from the November 9 tripartite meeting for the simultaneous opening of two new crossing points and the potential for a further meeting with the UN Secretary-General as a step towards a broader 5+1 conference.
She remarked that Turkey holds the key to progress in resolving the Cyprus issue, suggesting that if Ankara seeks to advance its relationship with the EU, particularly concerning the upgrading of the EU-Turkey Customs Union, it should show political will and cooperate in good faith towards a meaningful settlement.
Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Attempts at UN-led peace talks have yet to produce a resolution, with the last round of negotiations in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ending without an agreement.