Geadis GEADI

Policy topics Geadis GEADI is active on

What Geadis GEADI has said (41)

• 2026-06-16 “In The Middle East and the broader region, there are today 2 different courses contrary to each other. On the 1 hand, we have the, forces of instability and violence. On the other hand, those forces of security, peace, and development. There are extreme Islamic governments that are working together with different Islamic terrorist organizations creating chaos. But there's the Republic Of Cyprus as well, a member of the European Union, which is the key in the region in order to emerge from this chaos through each crisis, possibilities develop. 1 of those is the 3 plus 1 possibility. Israel, Greece, Cyprus working together with The United States, a form of cooperation which was created in order to strengthen to create stability, security, peace in the region of the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly as concerns energy, natural gas, defense, the economy. In a period of great economic changes, strengthening the Republic Of Cyprus and bolstering it is absolutely key in order to support to defend European civilization. Thank you very much.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2026-03-18 “Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission 11.5.2026 Written question The EU legal framework, in particular Regulation (EU) 2016/429 [1] and Commission Delegated Regulations (EU) 2020/687 [2] and 2020/689 [3] , provides for harmonised measures across the Union, based on the principle of rapid eradication through the stamping-out of confirmed outbreaks, combined with movement restrictions and, where appropriate, the use of vaccination [4] . These measures are designed to be proportionate to the risks posed by the disease and are applied taking into account the epidemiological situation. A recent risk assessment was carried out to ensure the efficacy of those measures for Member States [5] . While the legal framework is harmonised, its implementation allows for a degree of flexibility in the choice and combination of measures, including the use of emergency vaccination, under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States. The Commission is in close contact with the Cypriot authorities and supports them in the application of the appropriate control measures, including through technical assistance [6] and access to the EU foot and mouth disease vaccine bank [7] . The Commission continues to monitor the situation closely in view of the evolving epidemiological situation. [1] Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’) (OJ L 84, 31.3.2016, pp. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/429/oj). [2] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and the Council, as regards rules for the prevention and control of certain listed diseases (OJ L 174, 3.6.2020, pp. 64–, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/687/oj). [3] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards rules for surveillance, eradication programmes, and disease-free status for certain listed and emerging diseases (OJ L 174, 3.6.2020, pp. 211-340, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/689/oj). [4] https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/diseases-and-control-measures/foot-and-mouth-disease_en. [5] Scientific Opinion on the assessment of the control measures for category A diseases of Animal Health Law: Foot and Mouth Disease, First published: 08 June 2021, https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2021.6632. [6] https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/veterinary-emergency-team_en. [7] https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/diseases-and-control-measures/foot-and-mouth-disease/support-cy_en.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• 2026-03-09 “Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission 26.5.2026 Written question The EU has a strategic interest in a secure and stable environment in the Eastern Mediterranean. A comprehensive settlement of the Republic of Cyprus issue would significantly contribute to sustainable stability and security in the region. The EU continuously calls on Türkiye to normalise its relations with the Republic of Cyprus and respect the sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all Member States, as well as all their sovereign rights, in accordance with EU and international law. The EU has welcomed the support provided by Member States through the deployment of military assets in the Eastern Mediterranean and in support of the Republic of Cyprus and remains determined to defend its interests and those of its Member States.”
  EU-Turkey relations · Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2026-03-03 “P-000873/2026 Answer given by Mr Kubilius on behalf of the European Commission The security and territorial integrity of all Member States is a core interest of the EU, which is actively supporting and coordinating Member States’ efforts to strengthen their defence industrial base and the EU’s overall defence readiness in a 360-degree approach. Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union 1 is an important and powerful instrument in this regard. In case of an attack on its territory, its activation is the responsibility of the attacked Member State. The Commission stands ready to support Member States in its implementation as necessary. The Commission actively supports enhancing defence capabilities through technological cooperation and advanced surveillance systems, including counter-drone technologies. The European Defence Fund 2 stands as a key programme facilitating the development of counterdrone systems, such as through European Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems 3 and Tactical Advanced Laser Optical Systems 4 projects. Additionally, the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) 5 will further empower Member States to address their defence requirements. Member States and industry will be able to seize funding opportunities for joint acquisition or industrial reinforcement projects in relation to drones and counter-drone capabilities. EDIP also enables Member States to establish and receive funding for European Defence Project of Common Interest that could, for instance, organise the development, production and acquisition of drone and anti-drone systems. Under the Secure Action for Europe 6 instrument, Cyprus has requested a total of EUR 1 181 503 924 in loans through this instrument. These defence investments will strengthen the defence posture of Cyprus against any threats. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:2bf140bf-a3f8-4ab2-b506fd71826e6da6.0023.02/DOC_1&format=PDF. 2 Regulation (EU) 2021/697 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 establishing the European Defence Fund and repealing Regulation (EU) 2018/1092: https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/697/oj/eng. 3 European Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems: https://defence-industryspace.ec.europa.eu/document/download/d2719294-4288-43b4-9093-a2bc6134ace4_en?filename=EDF-2023DA-AIRDEF-CUAS%20E-CUAS.pdf. 4 Tactical Advanced Laser Optical Systems: https://defence-industryspace.ec.europa.eu/document/download/de830426-7142-4a72-961b-f7abcaa739b6_en?filename=EDF-2023-LSRA-DIS-LDEW%20TALOS-TWO.pdf. 5 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/2643/oj/eng. 6 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/1106/oj/eng.”
  Defence spending · EU competences on defence
• 2025-10-22 “E-004172/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission Equality and non-discrimination are founding values and fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Treaties, the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (CFREU) 1 and the European Pillar of Social Rights. The new lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) equality strategy is about ensuring that all people, including LGBTIQ+ people, are treated equally and not discriminated against in Europe. It builds on the current Strategy 2 which has been in place since 2020. The Commission firmly believes there is no contradiction between protecting the fundamental rights of children and those of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people and remains fully committed to both. The Commission fully respects the competences of Member States, and it is for them to determine the conditions under which legal gender recognition is granted. The protection and promotion of the rights of the child is a core EU objective. Article 24 of the CFREU provides that children may express their views freely. Such views shall be taken into consideration on matters which concern them in accordance with their age and maturity. The EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child 3 promotes a rights-based, participatory approach, ensuring that every child enjoys the same rights and be able to live free of discrimination, recrimination or intimidation of any kind. Furthermore, the Commission Recommendation on integrated child protection systems 4 calls on Member States to take appropriate measures to ensure that children are always treated without any discrimination and in a manner which protects their dignity, taking into account their personality, interests and special needs, and involving all actors, including children and families as primary carers. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/char_2012/oj/eng. 2 https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/5100c375-87e8-40e3-85b51adc5f556d6d_en?filename=lgbtiq_strategy_2020-2025_en.pdf. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52021DC0142. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj/eng.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion · LGBTIQ+
• 2025-05-13 “E-001912/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU has repeatedly expressed its expectation by Türkiye to de-escalate tensions in the interest of regional stability in the Eastern Mediterranean 1 . In particular, the Commission has underlined in the 2024 report on Türkiye 2 that, as stemming from obligations under the Negotiating Framework, Türkiye is expected to make an unequivocal commitment to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and the peaceful settlement of disputes including through the International Court of Justice. Türkiye must avoid threats and actions that damage good neighbourly relations and respect the sovereignty of all Member States over their territorial sea and airspace as well as all their sovereign rights, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This is essential to ensure a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship between the EU and Türkiye 3 . The EU continues to stress that Türkiye should commit and actively contribute to normalising its relations with the Republic of Cyprus 4 . 1 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/57442/2022-06-2324-euco-conclusions-en.pdf. 2 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/8010c4db-6ef8-4c85-aa06814408921c89_en?filename=T%C3%BCrkiye%20Report%202024.pdf. 3 https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_6157. 4 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16983-2024-INIT/en/pdf.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• 2025-05-02 “E-001772/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU has repeatedly made clear that it recognises only the Republic of Cyprus as a subject of international law, in accordance with the respective United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions 1 . It has also actively expressed its concerns to the members of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), at all levels and continues to call upon OTS members to refrain from actions that might imply the recognition of the so-called, internationally not recognised, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 2 . The EU remains fully committed to ensuring that the UNSC resolutions and generally recognised principles and norms of international law, particularly with respect to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states, are fully upheld. In this context, the EU recalls the commitment of the Central Asian partners to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states within the framework of all international and regional fora, and to refrain from taking any steps that run contrary to those principles. The EU also recalls the reaffirmation of the strong commitment of the Central Asian partners to the relevant UNSC Resolutions 541(1983) and 550 (1984). Respect of these international principles remain essential to the enhancement of EU-Central Asia relations 3 . The EU remains fully committed to a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem, within the UN framework, in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis. It remains crucial that Türkiye commits and contributes to such a peaceful settlement, including its external aspects 4 . 1 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/cyprus-statement-spokesperson-observer-status-turkish-cypriot-secessionistentity-organisation_en. 2 See footnote 1. 3 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/04/04/joint-declaration-following-the-firsteuropean-union-central-asia-summit/. 4 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16707-2023-INIT/en/pdf.”
  EU policy on Central Asia · EU-Turkey relations
• 2025-05-02 “E-001771/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations (UN) agreed framework, in accordance with all relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the EU acquis. It remains crucial that Türkiye commits and actively contributes to such a peaceful settlement, including its external aspects. The EU attaches particular importance to the resumption of and progress in the Cyprus settlement talks in further enhancing EU-Türkiye cooperation 1 . Welcoming the recent steps taken by the UN Secretary-General towards a resumption of settlement talks, the EU remains ready to play an active role in supporting all stages of the UNled process, with all appropriate means at its disposal 2 . These messages are continuously communicated to the Turkish authorities. 1 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf. 2 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16983-2024-INIT/en/pdf.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• 2025-05-02 “E-001809/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations (UN) agreed framework, in accordance with all relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis. It remains crucial that Türkiye commits and actively contributes to such a peaceful settlement, including its external aspects. As per the conclusions of the Special European Council of 17-18 April 2024, the EU attaches particular importance to resumption of and progress in the Cyprus settlement talks in further enhancing EU-Türkiye cooperation 1 . As per latest Council conclusions on Enlargement, welcoming the recent steps taken by the UN Secretary-General towards a resumption of settlement talks, the EU remains ready to play an active role in supporting all stages of the UN-led process, with all appropriate means at its disposal 2 . These messages are continuously communicated to Turkish authorities. The EU remains committed to continue cooperation in areas of common interest on the basis of an equal commitment on Türkiye’s side to advance on a path of cooperation and de-escalation. Concerning restrictive measures, under Article 29 of the Treaty on European Union 3 , it is strictly the prerogative of the Council, through its Member States, to take, with unanimity, decisions to adopt, renew or lift sanctions regimes. The EU will continue to call on Türkiye to comply with its international obligations, and with the EU values, as a candidate country for EU accession. It should be recalled that accession negotiations with the country remain at a standstill since 2018, in line with the decision of the Council 4 . 1 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf. 2 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16983-2024-INIT/en/pdf. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=legissum:25_1. 4 ‘35. The Council notes that Turkey has been moving further away from the European Union. Turkey's accession negotiations have therefore effectively come to a standstill and no further chapters can be considered for opening or closing and no further work towards the modernisation of the EU-Turkey Customs Union is foreseen’, Brussels, 26 June 2018 (OR. en) 10555/1.”
  EU-Turkey relations · Trade relations with Turkey
• 2025-04-28 “E-001690/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission The EU agri-food chain observatory (AFCO) was launched in 2024 as one of the actions that aim to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain and reinforce trust between actors. As set out in its Terms of Reference 1 , the purpose of AFCO is to advise the Commission and to exchange information and discuss with a view to establishing a common diagnosis of the situation across markets, and bring increased transparency on prices, cost structure, margin distribution and added value in the supply chain, while respecting confidentiality and competition rules. Market observatories, such as AFCO, provide advice and expertise and do not engage in policy discussions. In line with its Terms of Reference, by assessing and taking stock of the situation within the supply chain, the group provides inputs to inform policy responses by the Commission and other policy makers. Members of the AFCO exchange information based on available evidence and facts. These include existing data collected by the Commission, such as the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development and Eurostat, as well as information made available by members in full respect of confidentiality and competition rules. The Commission assesses the quality of data. Potential limitations in their use, comparability or interpretation are taken into account and clearly communicated when data are disseminated. The AFCO has convened three times since its creation. Its work currently focuses on identifying relevant data sources and data gaps, with a view to enabling the group to monitor the agri-food supply chain. 1 https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/expertgroups/consult?lang=en&groupID=3949.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• 2025-04-23 “E-001642/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission Human rights and the rule of law in Azerbaijan remain a priority for the EU and are at the core of the EU-Azerbaijan bilateral relations. The EU has repeatedly voiced concerns regarding the arrests of independent journalists, human rights defenders, and political activists 1 . During her visit to Azerbaijan on 25 April 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) discussed EU-Azerbaijan relations, regional cooperation, and the normalisation process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The HR/VP emphasised the importance of mutual respect, rule of law, and human rights in their bilateral relationship, and reiterated the EU’s strong support for the normalisation process and lasting peace in the region 2 . The HR/VP visited Armenia on 29-30 June 2025. She met with the President, the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister, civil society organisations, youth representatives and visited the EU Mission in Armenia. The HR/VP passed the clear message that the EU and Armenia have never been as close as they are now. During her visit, the HR/VP and the Foreign Minister signed an agreement establishing a framework for Armenia’s participation in EU crisis management missions and operations 3 . She also announced a political agreement on the text of the new EU-Armenia partnership agenda, which is underpinned by the Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia, launched the EU-Armenia security and defence consultations, and announced substantial new assistance for independent media in Armenia 4 . 1 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/azerbaijan-statement-spokesperson-human-rights-situation_en; https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/CRE-10-2024-10-22-ITM-020_EN.html; https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/CRE-10-2024-12-18-ITM-019-03_EN.html. 2 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/media-advisory-high-representative-kaja-kallas-travels-azerbaijan_en. 3 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/armenia-remarks-high-representativevice-president-kaja-kallas-joint-pressconference_en. 4 See footnote 3.”
  EU-Armenia relations · EU foreign policy approach · EU-Azerbaijan relations
• 2025-04-11 “E-001498/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The High Representative/Vice-President of the Commission (HR/VP) has repeatedly refuted actions and statements aimed at upgrading the international status of the so-called, internationally not recognised, ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’, which undermine efforts of the United Nations Secretary General to create an environment conducive to settlement talks. The EU recognises only the Republic of Cyprus as a subject of international law, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. The EU expects the same from its partners, who need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states within the framework of all international and regional fora, and to refrain from taking any steps that run contrary to this principle. This message has been clearly conveyed to the Azerbaijani authorities and the EU will continue to raise it at all levels in its political dialogue with Azerbaijan, as it was the case during HR/VP visit to Baku on 25 April 2025. The EU has monitored with concern developments since the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) Summit in Samarkand, in November 2022, regarding the acceptance of the Turkish Cypriot Community as an observer to this organization. A statement of the European External Action Service Spokesperson was issued, expressing a clear position about these developments 1 . The EU has actively and continuously expressed these preoccupations to the members of the OTS, at all levels. This has been done through HR/VP statements, lately in July (after the informal OTS Summit in Azerbaijan) 2 and November 2024 respectively 3 . The EU remains fully committed to ensuring that the above-mentioned UNSC resolutions and generally recognised principles and norms of international law, particularly with respect to the sovereignty, independence and integrity of states, are fully upheld. 1 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/cyprus-statement-spokesperson-observer-status-turkish-cypriot-secessionistentity-organisation_en?s=230. 2 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/node/443430_fr. 3 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/ots-statement-hrvp-josep-borrell-attempts-legitimise-turkish-cypriotsecessionist-entity_en.”
  EU-Turkey relations · EU-Azerbaijan relations
• 2025-03-10 “E-001014/2025 Reply It is not for the Council to comment on media reports, or on business decisions of individual economic operators. At the same time, the Council recalls that the European Council, at its meeting on 6 March 2025, stressed that Europe must become more sovereign, more responsible for its own defence and better equipped to act and deal autonomously with immediate and future challenges and threats with a 360° approach. In doing so, the Union will reinforce its overall defence readiness, reduce its strategic dependencies, address its critical capability gaps and strengthen the European defence technological and industrial base accordingly across the Union so that it is in a position to better supply equipment in the quantities and at the accelerated pace needed. This will also contribute to boosting European industrial and technological competitiveness. The above is without prejudice to the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain Member States, and takes into account the security and defence interests of all Member States, in accordance with the Treaties.”
  "Buy European" provisions · EU policy on screening foreign investment in strategic sectors and critical infrastructure
• 2025-03-06 “E-000960/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission Strengthening the EU’s wildfire response capacity is a key priority under the EU Disaster Resilience Goals 1 . Since 2014, the Commission has established firefighting reserves under the European Civil Protection Pool (ECPP) 2 to help countries respond to wildfire emergencies. In 2019, the ECPP was complemented by the EU’s strategic reserve rescEU 3 under which the Commission is developing a permanent rescEU wildfire fleet, set to be operational by early 2028. In 2024, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) 4 was activated 16 times for wildfires 5 . Ground teams from 12 countries were pre-positioned in Spain, Portugal, Greece, and France to support local brigades and enhance interoperability. The pre-positioning of firefighters will continue in 2025. To improve readiness, the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) is using early warning systems 6 for better situational awareness and is advancing artificial intelligence driven fire detection and behaviour analysis. Regular lessons learnt meetings help Member States share best practices on wildfire management, risk awareness, and integrated response strategies. The Wildfire Peer Review Programme 7 assesses national wildfire management and provides recommendations. The Wildfire Support Team of the ERCC supports operations with monitoring, coordination, and reporting activities. The Preparedness Union Strategy will help the EU and its Member States to better anticipate, prevent and prepare for emergencies, including natural and man-made disasters like wildfires. 1 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/european-disaster-riskmanagement/european-disaster-resilience-goals_en 2 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/european-civil-protection-pool_en 3 https://ec.europa.eu/stories/resceu/index_en.html 4 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en 5 Seven times by Member States and six times by participating states to the UCPM, mobilising 17 planes, 6 helicopters, and 8 ground teams from rescEU, ECPP, and spontaneous contributions by other countries. 6 Such as the European Forest Fire Information System. 7 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/peer-review-programme_en”
  Climate efforts
• 2025-02-24 “E-000823/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is aware of flights by Turkish air carriers between Ercan Airport and Türkiye even though the airport has not been designated by the Republic of Cyprus, in accordance with Article 68 of the Chicago Convention, for use for international air services. Moreover, in the absence of an air services agreement in force between the Republic of Cyprus and Türkiye, such operations are not permitted, in accordance with Article 6 of the same Convention. The Commission considers that in line with the 2024 Türkiye Report 1 which sets out Türkiye’s obligations on the normalisation of relations with Cyprus, Türkiye is expected to actively support negotiations on a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement of the Cyprus issue, in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the EU’s founding principles and acquis. As for potential sanctions by the Commission, it should be noted that there is no agreement on air services between the EU and Türkiye. Such an agreement might allow the Commission to directly address the situation and adopt measures on such air carriers. Air services between the Member States and Türkiye (including those operated by Turkish air carriers) are currently governed by the respective air services agreements in force between Member States and Türkiye. Any decision on adopting restrictive measures (sanctions) under the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy is for the Council to make under Article 31 Treaty on European Union 2 . 1 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/8010c4db-6ef8-4c85-aa06814408921c89_en?filename=T%C3%BCrkiye%20Report%202024.pdf. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/teu_2016/art_31/oj/eng.”
  Trade relations with Turkey · EU-Turkey relations
• 2024-12-04 “E-002776/2024 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issues recommendations (Conflict Zone Information Bulletins - CZIBs) for areas where an armed conflict can pose a significant security risk to EU civil aviation. Before issuing a CZIB, the Agency shall obtain the agreement of the Commission and consult the Member States. The risk to aviation posed by the operational activities of Ercan airport, as described by the Honourable Member, do not fall within the scope of EASA recommendations resulting from armed conflict. Eurocontrol is the designated Network manager under the Single European Sky Regulation in accordance with Commission Implementing Decision 2019/709 of 6 May 2019 1 and its membership as intergovernmental organisation also includes Türkiye. Eurocontrol is continuously monitoring and co-ordinating air traffic management on a pan-European basis, including in the region in question. Data from the Network manager show that traffic to and from Türkiye, which is the only traffic possible for this airport, has remained stable for some time. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2019/709/oj/eng”
  EU-Turkey relations · EU competences on foreign affairs
• 2024-12-04 “E-002774/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission The Commission expresses its deep regret for the damage caused to Cyprus by the floods on 2 November 2024. Under the ‘Thalia 2021-2027’ Programme, Cohesion Policy supports Cyprus with EUR 79 million (EU contribution) for long-term investments aimed at risk prevention and resilience-building, particularly in coastal areas. These investments include targeted antiflood measures, designed to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. In addition, Cyprus’ recovery and resilience plan includes several anti-flood and water collection measures, as well as measures to enhance Cyprus’ civil protection system. Similarly, through the Cypriot Rural Development Programme 2014-2022 and the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan 2023-2027, significant support is available for restoring agricultural potential. Furthermore, on 19 December 2024, the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE) proposal was approved. RESTORE introduces targeted flexibilities under the 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy framework, for reconstruction and repair measures to alleviate the negative socio-economic consequences of natural disasters. Additional measures under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) are also available to provide liquidity support for farmers, forest holders, and small and medium-sized enterprises under the Rural Development Programmes impacted by such events. The Commission stands ready to collaborate with the Cypriot authorities to explore how EU resources can be deployed effectively. In line with the shared management principle, the national authorities are responsible for selecting, implementing and monitoring the EU cofunded projects, in line with the programming documents.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2024-12-04 “E-002775/2024 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations agreed framework, in accordance with all relevant United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis. It remains crucial that Türkiye commits and actively contributes to such a peaceful settlement, including its external aspects. The EU attaches particular importance to resumption of and progress in the Cyprus settlement talks in further enhancing EU-Türkiye cooperation 1 . Welcoming the recent steps taken by the UN Secretary-General towards a resumption of settlement talks, the EU remains ready to play an active role in supporting all stages of the UNled process, with all appropriate means at its disposal 2 . The control on the export of arms by Member States is subject, inter alia 3 , to the Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP 4 . Under its Article 2(5)(b), when assessing export licence applications, they shall take into account the risk of use of the items against forces of other Member States. In line with EU’s Strategic Compass for Security and Defence and the Joint Communication on the State of play of EU-Türkiye political, economic and trade relations of November 2023 5 , the High Representative/Vice-President remains committed to developing a mutually beneficial partnership with Ankara. This requires equal commitment on Türkiye’s side to advance on a path of cooperation, sustained de-escalation and to address EU concerns. 1 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf 2 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16983-2024-INIT/en/pdf 3 This includes also national legislation and the Arms Trade Treaty, https://thearmstradetreaty.org/hyperimages/file/ATT_English/ATT_English.pdf?templateId=137253 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32008E0944 5 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/joint-communication-european-council-state-play-eu-turkiye-politicaleconomic-and-trade-relations-0_en”
  Disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons · EU-Turkey relations
• 2024-10-15 “E-002071/2024 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell i Fontelles on behalf of the European Commission The Great Sea Interconnector (formerly known as EuroAsia Interconnector) is recognised as a project of common interest (PCI) of the EU in the field of energy, notably under the first EU list of projects of common interest and mutual interest adopted in 2023 1 in line with the TransEuropean Networks for Energy Regulation 2 . All projects of common interest are closely monitored by the Commission. The Great Sea Interconnector is a crucial project aiming at ending Cyprus’ energy isolation, bringing the potential to lower energy prices for consumers, allowing for a higher share of renewables in its energy mix and increasing the security of energy supply of two Member States and the EU system altogether. Accordingly, the Commission is working together with the project promoter and relevant national authorities of the Member States involved to advance this project. The EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye. In this context, the EU continues to expect Türkiye to respect the sovereignty and the sovereign rights of all Member States, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 3 and to unequivocally commit to and promote good neighbourly relations and the peaceful settlement of disputes, having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice. 1 https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/qanda_23_6048 2 Regulation (EU) 2022/869 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2022 on guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure, OJ L 152, 3.6.2022, p. 45–102, https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/869/oj 3 https://www.imo.org/en/ourwork/legal/pages/unitednationsconventiononthelawofthesea.aspx?ref=shutmed.eu”
  EU policy on screening foreign investment in strategic sectors and critical infrastructure · EU-Turkey relations
• 2024-10-15 “E-002070/2024 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU supports the work of bi-communal Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot scientific teams involved in all stages of the work of the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus (CMP). These activities foster cooperation between the Cypriot communities, while providing relief to the families of missing persons as a crucial aspect of the overall efforts for reconciliation in the island. Through the EU’s Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community 1 , regular EU financial assistance contributes to the CMP’s efforts to recover, identify, and return the remains of missing persons to their families. Since 2006, the EU has been the largest provider of financial assistance to the CMP, which amounts to almost EUR 38.5 million, contributing to the identification of the remains of 1 051 persons from a list of 2 002 missing persons, which was agreed by the two communities in 2006 2 . The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that the Turkish authorities had failed to conduct an effective investigation aimed at clarifying the whereabouts and fate of Greek Cypriot missing persons who disappeared in life-threatening circumstances 3 . The EU remains fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations (UN) framework, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions 4 and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis. 1 https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/support-turkish-cypriotcommunity/aid-programme-turkish-cypriot-community_en 2 https://www.cmp-cyprus.org/statistics/ 3 Judgement of 10 May 2001, Case of Cyprus v. Turkey, https://hudoc.echr.coe.int/Eng%23%7b%22sort%22:%5b%22kpdate%20Descending%22%5d,%22itemid%22:% 5b%22001-59454%22%5d%7d?i=001-59454 4 https://www.securitycouncilreport.org/un_documents_type/security-councilresolutions/?ctype=Cyprus&cbtype=cyprus”
  EU-Turkey relations
• 2024-10-15 “E-002069/2024 Answer given by Ms Šuica on behalf of the European Commission As stated in the Communication on Demographic change in Europe: a toolbox for action of 11 October 2023 1 , the choice to have children is a personal one, although it can be influenced by external factors (i.e. quality of life, availability of care and housing, as well as work opportunities and adequate income). The toolbox inter alia aims to promote a better reconciliation of family aspirations and paid work, to increase the availability of childcare services to support parents with infants, to put in place working arrangements and work-life balance policies, and to explore the functioning of targeted tax and benefit reforms. Nonetheless, due to the European population structure, the limited effectiveness of policies in this area and to the urgency of the needs the Honourable Member refers to in the introduction to the parliamentary question, enhanced legal migration pathways is a policy option included in the toolbox. In this context, the Commission adopted an action plan to tackle labour and skills shortages in 2024, which highlights the benefits of linking together legal migration and employment policies, in order to attract talent from outside the EU to complement EU shortages 2 . 1 COM/2023/557. 2 Labour and skills shortages in the EU: an action plan, COM(2024) 131 final.”
  EU strategy on population growth · Support for families
• 2024-09-19 “– Ως πολίτης ενός κράτους που έχει περάσει τα ίδια —και χειρότερα— με την Ουκρανία, εκφράζω την ικανοποίησή μου για τη συμπαράσταση του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου στον λαό της Ουκρανίας απέναντι στην παράνομη ρωσική εισβολή. Το διεθνές δίκαιο δεν μπορεί να αμφισβητηθεί, ούτε η εθνική κυριαρχία να μην είναι σεβαστή. Όμως, για λόγους αρχής, επέλεξα να τηρήσω αποχή για να υπογραμμίσω την επιλεκτική ευαισθησία. Θα γίνω πιο σαφής: δεν γίνεται να καλείται η Κυπριακή Δημοκρατία να συνεισφέρει οικονομικά και στρατιωτικά στην Ουκρανία για να αντιμετωπιστούν παράνομες εξωτερικές ενέργειες, τη στιγμή που τα ευρωπαϊκά της εδάφη κατέχονται παράνομα από τον τουρκικό στρατό. Όπως βλέπουμε στην Ουκρανία βίαιη εκδίωξη πληθυσμού, αγνοούμενους, παράνομη κατοχή, εποικισμό, ανθρωποκτονίες, στέρηση της ελευθερίας και του δικαιώματος της περιουσίας, τα ίδια ακριβώς συμβαίνουν και στην Κύπρο. Ως εκ τούτου, αναμένω από την Ευρώπη την ίδια στήριξη και αντίδραση απέναντι στην Τουρκία με αυτήν που υιοθετείται κατά της Ρωσίας. Αλλιώς είναι υποκρισία. Όταν μιλάμε για την Ουκρανία, όλοι θα πρέπει να έχουν στο μυαλό και τη σκέψη τους ότι ένα μέλος της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης, η Κύπρος, βρίσκεται υπό καθεστώς ομηρίας από ένα κράτος με ποινικό μητρώο —την Τουρκία.”
• 2024-09-17 “E-001743/2024 Answer given by Ms Kos on behalf of the European Commission As an EU candidate country and a long-standing member of the Council of Europe, Türkiye is expected to respect fundamental rights, which are an integral part of EU-Türkiye relations, and implement the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). The Commission has repeatedly called on Türkiye to implement the ECtHR judgements as a matter of priority, including in the Commission’s annual enlargement reports 1 . The Commission is not in the position to comment on how the International Criminal Police Organisation implements an international wanted persons notice, issued at the request of one of its member countries. 1 https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/turkiye-report-2024_en.”
  EU-Turkey relations · EU competences on human rights
• 2024-09-17 “E-001744/2024 Answer given by Ms Ferreira on behalf of the European Commission In the case of Cyprus, the Cohesion Policy Programme ‘Thalia 2021-2027’ 1 aims to foster a strong and competitive economy through smart, digital, and green investments, while ensuring full employment and social cohesion. In line with the principle of shared management, the implementation of the Cohesion policy funds is the responsibility of Member States. Consequently, the Commission does not play a role in the selection of specific projects or in the day-to-day monitoring of their implementation. Τhe Directorate General for Growth within the Ministry of Finance acts as the Managing Authority for the ‘Thalia 2021-2027’ Programme, with overarching responsibility for its management and implementation 2 . In this sense it is for the Managing Authority to assess, in line with the priorities identified in this programme, how projects in the remote areas referred to in the question can be developed and supported. The EU remains fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem within the United Nations (UN) framework, on the basis of a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, in accordance with all relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis. 1 https://projects.research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/en/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmesand-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/restore-our-ocean-and-waters/cohesion-policyprogramme-thalia-2021-2027 2 Further details can be found at https://thalia.com.cy/en/home-en/”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2024-09-17 “E-001745/2024 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The Foreign Minister of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan, did not participate, on 29 August 2024, in the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council. He attended an informal reunion of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of EU Member States. This informal format, which does not count as a formal reunion of an EU institution, gives a good opportunity for exchanges with non-EU Ministers of Foreign Affairs. The High Representative/Vice-President and European Commission’s Joint Communication of November 2023 1 included the participation of the Turkish Foreign Minister to such an informal meeting as one of its recommendations. The European Council of April 2024 tasked Coreper to advance work on the recommendations of the Joint Communication in line with previous European Council conclusions 2 . The EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations (UN) framework, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the EU acquis. The EU has made repeatedly clear that it remains crucial that Türkiye commits and contributes to such a peaceful settlement, including its external aspects. Türkiye must normalise its relations with the Republic of Cyprus and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all EU Member States 3 . 1 https://neighbourhood-enlargement.ec.europa.eu/system/files/202311/Joint%20Communication%20to%20the%20European%20Council%20%20State%20of%20play%20of%20EUTurkiye%20political%2C%20economic%20and%20trade%20relations.pdf 2 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf 3 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16707-2023-INIT/en/pdf”
  EU-Turkey relations · EU competences on foreign affairs
• 2024-08-04 “E-001448/2024 E-001473/2024 E-001479/2024 Answer given by Mr Reynders on behalf of the European Commission Freedom of thought, conscience and religion as well as freedom of expression and information are essential foundations of EU’s democratic societies, enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the Charter) and the European Convention on Human Rights. Within the remit of its competences, the Commission is committed to ensure the protection and promotion of these rights. Under Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Commission carries out a regular dialogue with churches, religious organisations and non-confessional associations. The dialogue takes place in particular through yearly high-level meetings with religious and non-confessional leaders chaired by the Member of the Commission in charge of the dialogue. However, according to Article 51 of the Charter, the provisions of the Charter are addressed to the Member States only when they are implementing EU law. Based on the information provided by the Honourable Members, it does not appear that, in the matter referred to, the Member State concerned acted in the course of implementation of EU law. As a result, the Commission is not in a position to comment further on the issues raised by the Honourable Members.”
  EU engagement with Christian communities inside and outside the EU
• “Thank you very much. Madam Commissioner. Where are you going? To set up the Mediterranean University, Commissioner. So where will be based? And what about the firefighting hub in Cyprus? When will that be set up? And then will Matt be part of the Mediterranean Pact? You said that geopolitical uncertainty needs to be transformed into certainty. How are you going to do that when the Middle East Mediterranean corridor is being has been dealt a blow or is being impeded because of the occupation of Cyprus? How are we going to create infrastructure such as the GSI and other cables and corridors, which Turkey is impeding? How are you going to deal with the Russian shadow fleet and natural gas when Turkey is stopping the Eastmed pipeline and European gas, rather gas cannot get to Europe. And how are you going to deal with migration flows when they are being exploited by Turkey and used as a weapon. And also what is going to happen with migrants going back to safe havens or safe countries. Thank you. In order to put an end to migration.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• “Thank you very much, Madam President. After I was elected, I've been following all of your speeches, not just in Plenaries. You often mentioned Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, the US, China, the Western Balkans, Israel-Palestine, Syria, even Hungary and the Green Deal. However, how many times have you talked about the illegal Turkish occupation of Cyprus? Never. What about the people who were displaced or kidnapped? What about the people trapped in a member state? Uh, never. What about the war on Cyprus? Never. What about our religious heritage that's been destroyed? Never. Even today, when there are five Cypriots imprisoned in Turkey. You have not said anything. It's time to talk about it.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• “52:40 – 14:54:07): Thank you very much. We'll speak in Greek. Colleagues, Bosnia and Herzegovina as it stands is an example that should not be repeated. We see a great deal of fragmentation, a lack of a decision-making process as well as vetoes which hang over all decisions, and that has led to political deadlock. Because the system is based on ethnic separation, there's a kind of apartheid along the lines of that in South Africa. The lack of any consensus at political level is also problematic. So we, for our part as a European Union, must continue to pursue a path of European integration for Bosnia and not see the Bosnianization of the Balkans. And that is why Europe is duty bound to pursue this path. If we have member states who are seeking to throw themselves into the abyss, then we should intervene. For example, we need to save Cyprus from this fate. We need to have the kind of confederal model but it has proved to be anti-democratic and non-operational in the case of Bosnia based on this kind of racial separation.”
  EU relations with Bosnia and Herzegovina
• “Once again, we're discussing the situation in the Middle East as it has developed after the Hamas terrorist act. Uh, and of course, the acts of Hezbollah and Houthis as well, which all ended up in the war between Israel and Iran. But I want to underline something. Although so many months have passed with deaths, violence, unfortunately, we see a negation, a total negation on the part of Hamas as far as cooperation and returning the hostages. In other words, they are fighting against their own people. Uh, what they wanted to do was they wanted to create retaliation, and that's what they did. And that retaliation has brought terrible consequences for the people of Palestine as well. The tolerance of countries that work together with terrorists. This is unacceptable. Tolerance leads to impunity, and impunity means fertile ground for terrorists. Um. Take into consideration the strategic position of Cyprus. Those who forget that are leaving Europe totally uncovered and vulnerable.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• “I will speak in Greek. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has been a wake up call for Europe because hybrid threats security threats have been around since a number of years but unfortunately Europe was looking the other way. Let me remind you of attacks against French and Italian ships in the Cyprus territorial waters. Remember the Khazu's belly that Turkey Turkey has issued against the issue against Greece but no reaction from Europe. But in this report I now see that the EU needs to collaborate with Turkey so we are going to help Turkey to acquire weapons to turn it against European countries and European territories such as the Republic of Cyprus. So if we want Europe to be strong Europe must support Cyprus and especially help it become a NATO member state.”
  Arms export from the EU
• “The international stage is very uncertain, and that means that we have to build stronger European defence. Russia invaded Ukraine. Turkey is aggressive against Greece. We have the illegal occupation, Turkish occupation of Cyprus. Then we have Islamic terrorist organisations acting especially in the Middle East, illegal immigration, hybrid threats, cyber attacks and the ever changing geopolitical events mean that we have to act quickly. Europe cannot just move ahead on the basis of hope, and that things will turn out for the best. We have to invest in European defence so that article 42.72 is implemented so that we have proper European solidarity so that Europe can act if there are attacks or threats against it. It's only if we have a common European defence framework that we can protect our freedom in the EU, that we can protect European territory. Interruption by the president.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Yes, correct. Thank you very much. So here we're looking at directives that need to be applied by all member states. In the past there have been several cases, especially the cases involving the UK, the UK and Iceland for instance, and the EU intervened in a manner that wasn't decisive because you're talking about threats. Look at Turkey and the Aegean Sea with its fishing fleet. They are violating the rights of our fishers and of course this has a negative effect on our competitiveness and it endangers the safety of the sea and our fishes. With all of these elements, you can see that there have been threats to our territorial waters. What does the Commission intend to do on this and what instruments will the Commission use to ensure that the law of the sea is respected? Just a few days ago, Mister Callas, there were violations of European airspace by Russia and you had Turkey doing the same thing in Greek airspace as well. We need to intervene. These are very serious occurrences. It's a free for all if we don't intervene now.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• “Thank you very much. Madam president, the housing crisis is one of the most serious problems and challenges that the EU has called upon to tackle. The lack of affordable housing affects young people more, as well as middle and low income families and vulnerable groups. It undermines social cohesion, dignity and equality. High rental prices is a scourge, and it has also dealt a blow to my country because we have skyrocketing rental prices. But that's not as if that weren't enough. Uh, in Cyprus, we also have evictions from first residences. Like in other countries, citizens have to leave their homes. They're evicted without any protection of the right to housing and property. And that just exacerbates the whole problem. I'd like to say that evictions from first Residences or the first main homes has to stop. Every single citizen has a right to housing. This is something fundamental for all families.”
  EU housing policy
• “Thank you very much for the information given. We thank you very much for the whole presentation. I will underline the positive results of the meeting of the summit, but perhaps a point has escaped up to today in the Republic of Cyprus, which a member state of the European Union, we have remnants of the colonisation by the British and the High Court of the UK on the 30th of July of 2020, 2018 calls the British bases as remnants of the colonisation and the United Nations that the rights of that coming from colony, the remnants of colonial eras. And in 25th of February, the International Court of The Hague said that the UK has an obligation as soon as possible to stop the presence of the British bases. So the European Union should call for the withdrawal of the UK bases from Cyprus and the Republic of Cyprus to take back the territories, especially after the Brexit that has made the UK a third country in relation to the European Union.”
  EU-UK relations
• “Well, I was there. I witnessed the forest fires, and I have a great deal of experience in that. And I was able to identify the shortcomings. I could see where the gaps were. And that is why I have emphasized that we absolutely need to beef up this mechanism and make sure that Europe is secure.”
  Management of EU forests
• “Thank you very much. So you've said that we're going to develop our relations with Turkey. So let me ask. You know that the military have been Involved. Will. Turkey.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• “06:17 – 16:07:36): Thank you President. I will speak in Greek. Hi Representative Kallas. Now I think that you overlooked one important fact and that is the way in which Cyprus is having to contend with the fallout from the war in Iran and the agreements that we have. Of course we need to support Cyprus militarily, economically and also strategically and we will have to use the UN armed forces as well and also pursue UN resolutions on the occupation of the Turkish part of the island of Cyprus which is an illegal occupation and that is why we call for the immediate withdrawal of forces and what possible sanctions will be imposed on Turkey if it fails to abide by such calls. And then the issue of escalation and the community acquis because it is simply intolerable that you are not dealing with these issues when we're talking about occupation of EU territory and we've got a situation which requires your support.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• “Madam president, on behalf of the ECR president in office, we would like to welcome you to the European Parliament. We welcome the beginning of the Cypriot presidency, and we'd like to say that we are here to serve our homeland and give it all we have. The main aim is European autonomy, and this means that we will play a very important role given the geopolitical developments. All EU citizens need to be conveyed the message of security, uh, and, uh, decency through policies that cover real needs. In other words, we have to make sure that we have productive autonomy by supporting the primary and secondary sectors of our economy. We need to support economic autonomy by making sure we're competitive on the world stage, and that we have less red tape. Housing autonomy by giving incentives for affordable housing, which is the pillar of the sacred institution of the family. We also need energy autonomy by tapping into the potential that we have here and our natural wealth. We also need defense autonomy with a strong European defense and defense industry, autonomy across the board means less dependency. It means a more autonomous Europe that can decide on its own without any millstones around its neck. Europe will be able to lead on the global stage. Cyprus is taking up the baton of the EU presidency for the second time. This is the second time. Last time was 14 years ago. But it is still under military occupation. Turkish military occupation, it could be playing a very important role, given its geostrategic location as a bridge towards the Middle East. Has Turkey are blackmailing it with the threat of weapons? It is weaponizing migration. It is throwing a spanner in the works of projects of common European interest, and it is threatening to invade overnight. We want to work for Gaza, Iran, Venezuela, Honduras. That's what the EU is doing. And yet we don't care about our own children, about our own territories, about our own member states. We don't care about the country that holds the rotating presidency. Liberating Cyprus is the duty of all Europeans.”
  EU-Turkey relations
• “Exactly one month ago from this, uh, very microphone. I was warning that, uh, the developments will reach Europe. Unfortunately, I was confirmed, and Mr. Costa said that we are going to be impacted. We need to be proactive and not reactive. We have seen that, uh, it is not only Ukraine, but Cyprus as well in the Eastern Mediterranean that needs to be defended. E EU solidarity and defense needs to become reality. We cannot only rely on bilateral relations. At the same time, we have the usual suspects that are trying to profit from this crisis. Turkey, through its state bank Halkbank, was helping. Iran And has now deployed six F-16 fighter jets on the occupied territories in Cyprus in order to protect the. But protect it from whom? The sums in Hezbollah and Iran. How long can Europe undermine itself?”
  EU competences on defence
• “We are debating the need to combat discrimination. Respect for democracy and human rights and Christian faith are fundamental elements of our European legacy. However, is it possible to discuss common values when we undermine our own values? A few days ago, the progressive, so to speak, authorities in Brussels set up a Christian. Cradle. Uh. Without faces. The centre and the pseudo right is now against the Christian faith and our own civilisation in Cyprus. Even worse, a pseudo artist is provoking us with paintings that depict the Virgin Mary and Christ in despicable acts. This is a direct insult against our faith, and this proves that the number one discrimination nowadays is christianophobia. It may be annoying some people, but let me wish you Merry Christmas.”
  EU engagement with Christian communities inside and outside the EU