Nicosia: The new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) will be a focal point in the discussions between President Nikos Christodoulides and European Council President Ant³nio Costa during their meeting in Nicosia on Friday morning. Costa's visit to the Cypriot capital is part of his tour of EU Member States, as confirmed by Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis on Thursday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis briefed media representatives, noting that Costa is scheduled to arrive at the Presidential Palace at 9.00 am on Friday. The itinerary includes a private meeting between the two Presidents, followed by expanded talks. At 10.35 am, both leaders are expected to make statements to the media.
The timing of Costa's visit holds significance for the European Union, occurring at a pivotal moment for advancing negotiations on the Cyprus issue. Letymbiotis emphasized that discussions will revolve around the new MFF, effectively the EU budget for 2028-2034. He highlighted the progress achieved during the Cyprus EU Presidency, which laid the groundwork for finalizing political negotiations, with the goal of reaching an agreement by the end of 2026.
During the meeting, the Republic of Cyprus will articulate specific positions and demands as a Member State. The focus is on advocating for an ambitious and fair European budget that addresses emerging challenges such as security and competitiveness, acknowledges the unique needs of small island states, and supports growth and social cohesion.
Letymbiotis underscored the importance of safeguarding national allocations for Cohesion Policy, the Common Agricultural Policy, and Migration. Additionally, the talks will cover topics such as EU enlargement, competitiveness, migration, and developments in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the Gulf.
On the Cyprus issue, Letymbiotis indicated that President Christodoulides will update President Costa on efforts to resume negotiations, the recent visit by the UN Secretary-General, and increased EU involvement, including the role of Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Raffaele Fitto as the EU Special Envoy for the Cyprus issue.
"Our position is clear: The process is being conducted under the auspices of the United Nations, and the European Union can play a supportive and catalytic role by making use of its political weight, its instruments, and the incentives at its disposal," Letymbiotis remarked.
He further stated that progress in EU-Turkey relations could facilitate Ankara's substantive contribution to the negotiation process and resolution efforts, always within the framework of the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Letymbiotis reiterated that Cyprus, as an EU Member State, will continue to be part of the Union post-reunification. Therefore, any settlement must guarantee a functioning European state, fully aligned with EU principles and values.
He concluded by noting that the meeting represents an opportunity for dialogue on key European issues while addressing specific concerns of Cyprus. The island has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern region, with previous UN-led peace talks failing due to Turkish intransigence. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed intentions to convene another meeting after sufficient preparation, securing consensus from both sides and guarantor powers.