On December 15, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, said that his country must take a leading position regarding Syria and its future.
This statement was made in the context of the geographical proximity of Cyprus to Syria and the significant impact of events in the region on the island.
“Cyprus is a member state of the European Union directly neighboring Syria, so our role in this issue must be leading,” Christodoulides said. He stressed that Cyprus suffered more than other EU countries from the Syrian crisis.
The Republic of Cyprus has submitted a working document to the EU that reflects the region's overall approach to the Syrian issue. The document sets out proposals for preserving the territorial integrity and independence of Syria, as well as solving migration problems.
Christodoulides emphasized that he is in constant dialogue with the states of the region. Last week he held telephone conversations with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. According to the President, Cyprus' initiative has received support and recognition in the EU.
“We are on the same page with Arab countries. Our approaches are the same, and as an EU member we play a key role in shaping the Union’s position on Syria,” said Christodoulides.
When asked about specific proposals from Cyprus, the president clarified that they relate to strengthening the territorial integrity of Syria, protecting its independence from external interference, resolving migration issues and restoring stability in the region.
Source: cyprus-mail.com
