Nicosia: The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, participated on Tuesday in a teleconference of leaders of the "Alliance of the Willing," which was held on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. The meeting was co-chaired by the French President, Emmanuel Macron, and the British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer. Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, highlighted in a written statement that Ukraine remains a top priority within the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Letymbiotis noted that "the Republic of Cyprus, as a country that has experienced an illegal invasion of its territory and continues to be under military occupation, fully understands the tragic consequences of the war in Ukraine." He further emphasized that Cyprus reaffirms its steadfast support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, stressing that internationally recognized borders cannot be altered through force.
Letymbiotis also addressed recent developments, stating that the Republic of Cyprus is closely monitoring the progress of negotiations and the ongoing involvement of the United States. He emphasized that developments in Ukraine have a direct impact on Europe, which must take an active role in the relevant processes.
"Ukraine is a top priority, in the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union," the Spokesman stated. The Presidency is collaborating with EU institutions and member states to continue the multifaceted European support for Ukraine. This includes the 20th package of sanctions, the implementation of the December European Council agreement on the £90 billion loan, and maintaining momentum in Ukraine's accession negotiations with the European Union.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have yet to produce a resolution. The latest round of negotiations, held in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, ended without a conclusion.