Cyprus reiterates non-recognition of Kosovo's independence

In a statement to CNA on Thursday, Cyprus' Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Theodoros Gotsis, reaffirmed the nation's enduring positions regarding Kosovo. Addressing the recent approval by the Plenary of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) on Kosovo's accession to the Council of Europe (CoE), Gotsis emphasized Cyprus' steadfast commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states. This principled stance dictates that Cyprus does not recognize Kosovo's unilaterally declared independence.

Gotsis underscored that Cyprus conveyed its position at the Council of Europe through its representatives in the Parliamentary Assembly, a sentiment reiterated during last year's debate, where Cyprus voted against it. Despite its non-recognition of Kosovo's independence, Cyprus remains a staunch supporter of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, facilitated by the European Union.

The announcement by Cyprus' House of Representatives revealed the voting outcomes during the PACE's second Session for 2024. With 131 MPs voting in favor of the Opinion, 29 against, and 11 abstentions, members of the Cypriot delegation, George Loucaides and Christiana Erotokritou, voted against the Opinion. However, the final decision regarding Kosovo's membership in the CoE rests with the Committee of Ministers.

Cyprus' unwavering stance on Kosovo's independence aligns with its broader commitment to respecting Serbia's territorial integrity and sovereignty. This position reflects Cyprus' consistent approach to international affairs, rooted in principles of state sovereignty and adherence to established norms of international law.

[Information sourced from CNA]