The leaders of seven Southern European countries announced on Wednesday that they are in favour of a viable comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue.
According to a CNA report, the leaders of Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal and Spain, met in Rome for the fourth Summit of the Southern European Union countries and issued a declaration entitled “Bringing the EU forward in 2018.”
In the abovementioned declaration, they stated that they closely follow and reiterate their support for a viable comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, in line with the UNSC resolutions and the EU acquis that reunifies Cyprus and its people, and which safeguards Cyprus’ sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, without guarantees.
They also added that the Republic of Cyprus is and will remain a member of the European Union after the settlement, and EU membership is the best safeguard for a reunified Cyprus.
As it was agreed, the next summit of the EU Southern countries will take place in Cyprus.
Meanwhile, President Anastasiades appeared to be satisfied with the mutual understanding of his “friends and counterparts,” adding that the existence and strengthening of a better Europe are impeded by the ongoing Cyprus issue which is a European problem that has remained unsolved for 44 years.
The Cypriot President also said that the seven leaders had the opportunity to talk about European energy security issues. Mr Anastasiades informed his counterparts about the developments in Cyprus’ EEZ as well as the discoveries in the area. He also said that the creation of the East Med can offer a sense of security to the EU, while he also briefed his fellow leaders on Turkish violations of Cyprus’ sovereign rights.