Nicosia: Ireland supports all efforts to seek a resolution of the Cyprus problem, in accordance with the original UN resolutions and processes, which would bring immense benefits to Cyprus, the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence of Ireland, Thomas Byrne, told CNA on Tuesday, in the context of his recent three-day visit to Cyprus, as Ireland will succeed Cyprus at the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2026.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Irish Minister emphasized the need for the EU to understand the specificities of all Member States in terms of security and defence, while strengthening relations with key trade partners and diversifying trade strategies. During his visit, he met with various officials, including the Committee of Missing Persons, UN officials, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, and President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides.
Byrne highlighted Ireland’s priorities as it prepares to take over the EU Presidency from Cyprus, focusing on the Multiannual Financial Framework which will be a significant undertaking for both presidencies. He stressed the importance of security and defence, acknowledging different issues faced by Member States, such as those on the Russian border and in the Eastern Mediterranean.
On Ireland’s stance regarding the SAFE initiative, Byrne mentioned that while Ireland is not currently taking loans, there may be future cooperation. He emphasized Ireland’s significant increase in defence spending and the importance of cyber security and resilience against threats to information space and public sphere.
Addressing the Cyprus problem, Byrne reiterated Ireland’s support for a resolution in line with UN resolutions, emphasizing the global community’s will to bring benefits to Cyprus. He also commented on the American peace proposal in the Middle East, urging all parties, including Hamas, to support peace efforts, advocating for a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.
Byrne discussed trade relations, noting the significance of certainty for economic development and the importance of diversifying trade strategies with regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America. He welcomed improved relations with the UK under the Starmer administration and expressed hopes for closer EU-UK relations during the Cyprus and Ireland presidencies.
Reflecting on Ireland’s experience with Brexit, Byrne noted a positive shift since the current UK government took office, emphasizing the desire for close relations and cooperation under the Good Friday Agreement. He expressed hope for a Security and Defence Partnership agreement between the EU and UK during the upcoming EU presidencies.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following a Turkish invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite multiple rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has not been achieved. The most recent negotiations in July 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, ended without conclusion.