Cyprus works to promote a European vision

The Republic of Cyprus, having a clear orientation and specific positions, is working to define and promote a clear European vision that truly meets the expectations of the citizens of the EU member states, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement on the occassion of the 15th anniversary of Cyprus` accession to the EU.

It also noted that the status of Cyprus` EU membership has brought a new dimension to the efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, making European law and the principles and values of the EU an integral part of the content of the solution sought.

It added that it is precisely within this context that the EU can play a decisive role in the effort to resume substantive talks, as a result of which a reunited Republic of Cyprus will be able to function as a normal member state that will actively and effectively participate in the EU decision-making process.

The Foreign Ministry underlined that Cyprus` accession to the EU is a landmark in the modern history of the country. It noted that the accession of Cyprus to the great family of the European Union in 2004 was the culmination of a titanic, collective effort and demonstrates, among other things, that commitment to clear objectives, on the basis of a clear and targeted strategy, can lead to the achievement of difficult national goals and aspirations.

Furthermore, the Foreign Ministry noted that by taking advantage of the status as an EU member state and  having as a key pillar of its foreign policy the substantial contribution to the EU, the Republic of Cyprus actively participates in the EU decision-making process and benefits from EU policies.

At the same time, it noted, Cyprus, being at the easternmost end of the EU and enjoying historically close relations with neighboring countries, highlights the added value and the important role it can play in the efforts to enhance the EU`s relations with the countries of the wider Middle East.

The Foreign Ministry added that given the major European challenges, the Republic of Cyprus is working with clear orientation and specific positions to define and promote a clear European vision that truly meets the expectations of the peoples of the EU member states.
 
The Ministry noted that it is within this framework that the Council of Ministers has recently decided to establish a General Secretariat for European Affairs, which will, inter alia, ensure full exploitation of the political and economic benefits of EU membership, based on the experience over the past 15 years since the accession of the Republic of Cyprus.

The Republic of Cyprus, divided by Turkish troops since 1974, became a full EU member state on the 1st of May 2004 along with
the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia.