Important negotiations are currently under way on the Cyprus issue and a future reunification of the island.
Important negotiations are currently under way on the Cyprus issue and a future reunification of the island. On Tuesday Sweden’s Minister for EU Affairs Cecilia Malmström will be on Cyprus for talks with both parties on the island.
Cecilia Malmström will meet Minister of Foreign and EU Affairs Markos Kyprianou, President Demetris Christofias and the Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat. During the visit Ms Malmström will also meet representatives of the European Commission and the UN.
Why is the Cyprus issue important just at the moment?
“It is one of the most important issues in Europe during 2009. At the moment, the negotiations on a solution have reached an important stage. It is very positive that there is a clear political will from the parties. Everyone, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, but also the rest of the EU, has everything to gain from a reunification of the island. On the other hand, failure would mean the risk of having to live with this conflict for many years to come.”
Why are you travelling to Cyprus?
“I am going to meet Cyprus’s President Christofias and Foreign and EU Affairs Minister Kyprianou, as well as the leader of the Turkish Cypriots Mr Talat, to show the EU’s support for the negotiation process. I will also communicate our hope that a solution can soon be reached, and emphasise how much the parties have to gain from this. Supporting a solution to the Cyprus issue is of great importance to the Swedish Presidency.