Nicosia: The political capital acquired over the past six months constitutes a valuable national asset, which will be used for the benefit of Cyprus' citizens, the country itself, and its strategic and national objectives, President Nikos Christodoulides said during his address at Wednesday's press conference in Nicosia reviewing Cyprus' EU Presidency.
According to Cyprus News Agency, one of the key priorities of the Cyprus Presidency was to strengthen cooperation and ensure that European partners recognized the strategic importance of the wider region to the European Union itself. President Christodoulides highlighted that the Cyprus Presidency took place during a challenging period marked by crises such as the ongoing war in Ukraine and developments in the Middle East, which required the EU to demonstrate unity and effectiveness.
President Christodoulides expressed pride in Cyprus' ability to assume major European responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to shaping European developments. He emphasized that decisions made at the European level have a direct impact on citizens' daily lives, influencing security, the economy, businesses, employment, infrastructure, and other areas of public policy.
The President also noted that as the EU's southeasternmost member state, Cyprus understands the necessity of security, stability, and adherence to international law for the prosperity of its people. He reiterated that Cyprus' EU membership serves as the strongest guarantee for implementing any future settlement and addressing various issues, including the Cyprus issue.
President Christodoulides further outlined the objectives of the Cyprus EU Presidency, which included contributing to a safer and more resilient Union. This involved adopting a comprehensive approach to security, encompassing energy security, protection of critical infrastructure, and addressing hybrid threats, among other areas. He mentioned advancements in defense, such as military mobility initiatives, and efforts to strengthen collective security within the EU.
During the Cyprus Presidency, significant progress was made in various areas, including the approval of member states' plans under the SAFE instrument, securing funding for Cyprus' defense capabilities, and promoting initiatives to reduce bureaucracy and support European businesses. Major achievements included reforms in the Customs Union and agreements with countries like Mercosur, India, Mexico, and Switzerland.
President Christodoulides also highlighted Cyprus' role as a regional bridge and the success in having Brussels recognize the strategic importance of the region for the EU. He mentioned Cyprus' contributions to the EU's enlargement process and connectivity agreements, as well as the conclusion of the Cyprus Presidency with a conference focusing on the needs of island states and coastal regions.
In discussing health security and social policy, he emphasized agreements on critical medicines and social security systems, as well as the inclusion of affordable housing within the Cohesion Fund. The President stressed the importance of utilizing the political capital gained during the Presidency for Cyprus' benefit and reiterated the country's commitment to resolving the Cyprus issue and ending the occupation.
President Christodoulides addressed questions regarding Article 42.7 and NATO, asserting that the EU can operate autonomously in defense and security matters. He also discussed budgetary matters, emphasizing the need to increase the EU's own resources, and outlined the role of Cyprus in advancing negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework.
In conclusion, the President reaffirmed Cyprus' dedication to serving the European interest and the continuation of efforts to strengthen European coordination within the government. Cyprus remains divided since 1974 due to the invasion and occupation by Turkish troops.