Christodoulides again calls for a more active EU role in Cyprob talks

President Nikos Christodoulides discussed his proposal for a more active EU role in the efforts to break the deadlock, resume talks and reach a solution of the Cyprus problem, as well as the next steps forward during separate meetings he had on Wednesday with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and European Council President Charles Michel.

The meetings took place on the side-lines of the summit of Heads of State and Government of the Council of Europe which is being held in Reykjavík.

President Christodoulides’ proposal was the main subject discussed during the meetings, a presidency press release said.

During the meeting with the Rutte, Christodoulides discussed in a very constructive climate, his proposal for a more active EU role in the efforts to break the deadlock and exchanged views over the moves which should be made in the period immediately ahead.

Rutte, the press release added: “Understands the prospects created by the President of the Republic’s proposal and agreed to contribute in a positive way through coordinated actions to further promote its implementation.”

During the meeting with the European Council President, Christodoulides discussed specific actions which could take place in the coming time in relation to the proposal for a more active EU involvement and they agreed to remain in close and continuous touch to coordinate their actions.

At the general debate at the summit later in the day, the president said that there is a need for member states not to forget that the Cyprus problem remains unresolved, and that the status quo cannot under any circumstances be considered an acceptable solution.

He added that the significant impact of the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights and the monitoring of their implementation by the Council of Europe.

Christodoulides reiterated his readiness and determination to make every possible effort towards the solution of the Cyprus issue and pointed out the historic role that the member states can play in this effort.

He also welcomed the declaration to be adopted by the summit, which reaffirms the commitment of the member states to safeguarding the fundamental principles and values of the Council of Europe, but also demonstrates our determination to strengthen the council in its decisive role in effectively addressing current and future challenges.