Tusk pledges support for Cyprus

Donald Tusk, the recently-appointed head of the European People’s Party (EPP), affirmed his support for Cyprus’ efforts to “protect its independence and sovereignty in all aspects.”

Cyprus concerns regarding Turkish violations in its EEZ were highlighted by Democratic Rally President, Averof Neophytou, during a meeting of the political assembly of the EPP in Brussels.

Speaking to the press alongside Neophytou after the meeting, the former President of the European Council said that “As you know, our constant support for Cyprus is nothing new.”

Tusk added that “While I was still President of the European Council, I remember the clear and hard message [of support we gave] to Cyprus regarding this very aggressive Turkish behaviour, and I can reaffirm, as President of the EPP, that in a very consistent way I will support Cyprus in your efforts to protect your independence and sovereignty.”

"A violation of your sovereignty and independence is also a violation of European sovereignty and independence,” Tusk said, adding that “You can count on us. And I believe I can say these words not on behalf of our political family but on behalf of the whole of Europe".