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EU Parliament Urges Action on Cyprus Issue and Strategic Autonomy

Published January 20, 2026, 14:32

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have called on the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU to promote European strategic autonomy and support the resolution of the Cyprus issue. During the presentation of the Cypriot Presidency's program in Strasbourg, MEPs emphasized that a united Europe requires a united Cyprus. Manfred Weber, President of the European People's Party, highlighted Cyprus's role as a bridge to the region and expressed hope that the Presidency would contribute to European integration. Kostas Mavridis, representing the Socialists and Democrats, stressed the need for a holistic approach to the challenges facing the EU, focusing on strength, respect for international law, and social cohesion. He also criticized the lack of similar sanctions against Turkey for the occupation of Cyprus, compared to those imposed on Russia for the invasion of Ukraine. Other MEPs, such as Kinga Gál and Geadis Geadi, raised concerns regarding the Migration Pact, support for Ukraine, the EU budget, and the promotion of national autonomy.