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Cyprus President Highlights Link Between EU Integration and Resolution of Cyprus Issue

Published January 20, 2026, 13:37

The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, emphasized to the European Parliament that European integration is inextricably linked to resolving the Cyprus issue, namely ending the occupation, liberating and reunifying Cyprus, based on UN resolutions for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. He expressed his satisfaction with the appointment of a representative of the President of the Commission for the Cyprus issue, highlighting the EU's potential to contribute to a mutually beneficial solution. The President also referred to other important issues, such as migration, where he presented the positive results of Cypriot policies, with an 80% reduction in arrivals and a 60% increase in returns. The goal of the Cypriot Presidency is to promote the Pact on Migration and Asylum, ensuring unity among member states. Regarding the Schengen Area, President Christodoulides described Cyprus's accession as a strategic goal, capable of strengthening security and confirming the country's European orientation. He confirmed that Cyprus has completed all technical checks and is awaiting the final report from the Commission. Finally, the President stressed the importance of EU enlargement, emphasizing the need to respond to the obligations of candidate countries, and referred to the Middle East, expressing Cyprus's willingness to contribute to finding solutions.