Statement of the President of the Republic of Cyprus at the EPP Summit

Upon his arrival at the Summit of the European People’s Party (EPP) yesterday, the President of the Republic, Mr Nikos Christodoulides, made a statement to journalists.

The President of the Republic welcomed the fact that Mr Weber convened the extraordinary meeting of the leaders of the EPP on the situation in the Middle East. President Christodoulides added that Cyprus is the closest member state of the European Union (EU) in the area and a country with excellent relations with its neighbouring states. The President of the Republic stated that he conveys the message that the EU must engage more actively in the efforts to de-escalate the crisis. President Christodoulides stressed that terrorism cannot be accepted. We cannot accept civilian casualties. The political peace process should recommence as soon as possible, President Christodoulides added.

The President of the Republic noted that Cyprus is ready to play a role, either in the evacuation of European and other citizens from the area, and also noted that we have already received requests from more than 20 countries, or in supporting the efforts to send humanitarian aid with the creation of a humanitarian sea corridor, an issue which he discussed with President Sisi and Prime Minister Netanyahu.

At the same time, President Christodoulides added that as EU, we must support the countries of the region which are pillars of stability, particularly Egypt and Jordan, which have a key role in the efforts for de-escalation. As EU, we should pay particular attention to these two countries.

(GS)

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