Raouna: Europe will be reunified, when all countries that share its values share its future: Europe will be reunified, when all countries that share its values share its future, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna said, posting on X on the occasion of Cyprus' joining the EU in 2004.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Raouna emphasized the significance of Cyprus' accession to the European Union, marking it as a historic milestone for both Cyprus and the EU. She reflected on the events of 22 years ago when Cyprus, along with nine other countries, became part of the EU in the largest single enlargement in its history.
"For Cypriots, 1 May 2004 was a promise of peace, prosperity, security, opportunity, and hope for reunification. As a small member state, standing at the EU's southeasternmost frontier, and as a member state still under occupation, Cyprus knows what it means to place your future and security within the European family," Raouna stated.
Raouna further highlighted that Cyprus, during its term at the helm of the Council of the EU, has prioritized the topic of enlargement, considering it the EU's most potent geopolitical instrument. She affirmed the country's commitment to working alongside EU institutions and enlargement partners to facilitate tangible progress in accession negotiations.
Cyprus joined the EU in 2004 and assumed the EU Council Presidency for the first time in 2012. The current Presidency term is set to conclude in June.