Brussels: The President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, held a series of meetings on Monday in Brussels, as part of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union. During her meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, Demetriou emphasized the challenges faced by Cyprus, particularly focusing on the Cyprus issue. She reaffirmed the commitment to resume the process from the point where it was interrupted in Crans-Montana.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Demetriou highlighted that Cyprus remains committed to the agreed framework for a solution, as defined by the United Nations Resolutions, advocating for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality. She noted the importance of the momentum between the leaders and acknowledged that certain issues extend beyond the Greek Cypriot side. Demetriou urged for substantive progress beyond Confidence-Building Measures and encouraged collective contributions in this direction.
Demetriou emphasized that the Republic of Cyprus, with its credentials of legality, stability, and political consistency, must responsibly advance to the next step. She mentioned that Metsola reaffirmed the European Parliament's support for resolving the Cyprus issue and stressed the necessity for the full implementation of European principles and values throughout Cyprus.
On European matters, Demetriou stressed the common challenges faced by Member States and the need for a coordinated response. She advocated for enhanced cooperation to achieve more significant outcomes. During her participation in the European People's Party (EPP) political group meeting, she discussed budgetary issues, economic governance, and Member States' challenges, while presenting the priorities of the Cypriot Presidency.
Demetriou highlighted the significance of Cyprus holding the Presidency of the Council at this juncture and noted that close cooperation with other Member States is crucial for shaping the European Union's future. Additionally, as a keynote speaker during the European Parliamentary Week, she participated in a discussion organized by the Women Political Leaders (WPL) network. She emphasized that gender equality is essential, viewing it as a cornerstone of democracy.