The solution of the Cyprus problem should be in full-compliance and without any deviations from our European values, principles and the acquis, President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades has stressed.

In his intervention at the second day of the European People`s Party (EPP) Congress Plenary that takes place in Malta, the President noted that a viable and lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem would be to the best interests not only of the Greek and Turkish Cypriots but also of Europe and its future, and would end the oxymoron of having one of its member-states being forcibly divided with the presence of foreign troops on its soil, and will, at the same time, enhance Cyprus’ role as security provider in the south-eastern Mediterranean region.

“For the above-mentioned of course, what is required is that the settlement to be reached should be in full-conformity and without any deviations from our European values, principles and the acquis”, he continued.

Furthermore, he said Cyprus needs to maintain both an independent foreign policy and its effective-participation in decision-making within the Union, with the aim not to negatively affect the positive role we have assumed in the overall security architecture of the EU.

“Therefore, in times of increasing internal and external challenges for Europe, I do call on your substantial unity and solidarity so as to turn Cyprus into one of EU’s success story, conveying the message both to our immediate neighborhood and internationally as to the dynamic potential of our collective strength and what this historic and unique Union of countries represents: “United in diversity”, he added.

He also expressed his gratitude to EPP for its strong support “to our efforts to reach a viable and comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem, which is also a European problem, is interconnected with our aim of creating a stronger Europe. The resolution adopted yesterday is the most credible evidence of this support and solidarity”.

Noting that the theme of our Congress, “Securing Europe’s Future” is extremely pertinent to our ongoing discussions for the future of our common family, he said that last Saturday we commemorated the 60th Anniversary of the Treaties of Rome and we recalled the historic journey and the ways and means through which our Union evolved to a thriving and strong partnership.

“First, we must strengthen our democratic structures and the rule of law, invest in open and pluralistic, cohesive societies and in enhancing democratic security for our citizens; through opposing any form of extremism and not permitting the prevalence of fear and intolerance,” he said.

Secondly, the Cypriot President added, the Union should come closer to its citizens through lessening its complicated and time-consuming bureaucratic procedures, strengthening political accountability and transparency on decision-making and adopting better-targeted policies which will provide to its citizens new opportunities for cultural and social development and economic growth.

Thirdly, unity is and should remain the cornerstone of our Union, he pointed out, adding that his fourth point is that solidarity of the European Union is a fundamental guiding principle and an issue of European credibility.