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Cyprus has extended an invitation to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to participate in an informal European Council meeting on the island, or alternatively to send his foreign minister or deputy minister for European affairs, President Nikos Christodoulides said Wednesday.
Speaking in an interview with Greek journalist Nikos Lourdas for SKAI TV, Christodoulides said the move is part of Nicosia’s broader efforts to foster closer EU-Turkey engagement amid Cyprus’ current EU Council presidency.
“Let me give you an exclusive that isn’t exactly pleasant for us,” Christodoulides told Lourdas. “We approached EU institutions and several member states with close ties to Turkey, offering to invite either President Erdogan to the informal European Council, the Turkish foreign minister to the Gymnich meeting here in Cyprus, or even the deputy minister for European affairs to the informal General Affairs Council sessions. A few days ago, we even asked for intermediaries to help, because our goal is to create positive developments, not simply send an invitation and receive a negative response.”
He added that Turkey’s initial reaction had been “not positive” but stressed that Nicosia would continue its efforts.
Christodoulides said the invitation underscores Cyprus’ proactive approach to the informal summit, which is scheduled for April, and reflects its desire to keep lines of communication open despite diplomatic obstacles.
“A few days ago, we were informed that Turkey’s reaction is not positive,” he said. “But that will not stop our efforts.”
The president’s comments highlight the delicate balance Cyprus seeks to maintain, hosting an EU meeting on its soil while attempting to nudge Turkey toward engagement on EU matters, even amid longstanding regional tensions.
*Source: Skai.gr
