The very important role of the EU in the efforts to find a solution to the Cyprus problem was highlighted today by the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, welcoming, at the Presidential Palace, the EU Special Representative for the Cyprus problem, Mr. Johannes Hahn, assuring him at the same time that if it were up to him, a solution to the Cyprus problem would be achieved.
Specifically, welcoming Mr. Khan, in the presence of the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Ms. Marilena Rauna, the President of the Republic said, among other things, that "we are happy to have you in this new effort and we truly hope that my meeting today (with the Turkish Cypriot leader), but also your own contacts - I am glad that you will finally meet with the Turkish Cypriot leader - will pave the way for the resumption of talks.
We have lost 2,5 years and now is the time to discuss the substance. I am moving to today's meeting with the aim of resuming the talks from where they were interrupted in the summer of 2017. And the EU's involvement, your involvement, can help pave the way for the resumption of the talks and of course for the solution of the Cyprus problem."
For his part, Mr. Khan said, among other things, that "indeed, I believe it is time for results. After so many difficult trials, I believe there is now an opportunity, I will not say the last opportunity, but there is an opportunity."
He also pointed out, addressing President Christodoulides, that "Europe relies very much on you to find a good relationship with the Turkish Cypriot leader, so as to pave the way not only for the resumption of talks but also for finding a definitive, positive solution" to the Cyprus problem.
In response, President Christodoulides said that "be assured that if it were up to me, we would have a solution."
