Borrell and Kombos discuss Cyprob in Luxembourg meeting

EU High Representative Josep Borrell and Foreign Minsiter Constantinos Kombos discussed the more active involvement of the EU in efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem under the auspices of the UN on Monday, during a meeting on the sidelines of the Foreign Affairs Council held in Luxembourg.

Foreign Minister Kombos will also be representing Cyprus at the General Affairs Council of the EU, which will be held in Luxembourg on Tuesday.

During a one on one meeting, the Kombos exchanged views with Borrell on the Cyprus problem and a more active involvement from the EU in the efforts to resume negotiations for a solution under UN auspices, according to the foreign ministry.

The two officials also addressed issues related to EU foreign policy, with a particular focus on the current situation in Ukraine.

During the Foreign Affairs Council, the 27 foreign ministers focused on the latest developments in relation to Ukraine following the Russian invasion and the assessment of the EU’s coordinated response. Also, as Borrell said during a press conference after the meeting, the ministers also discussed the latest developments in Russia following the Wagner group uprising.

During the discussion on Ukraine, Kombos welcomed the adoption of the 11th package of sanctions against Russia, making particular reference to the need to take effective measures to counter circumvention of sanctions by third countries. Kombos also condemned the recent attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, including the attack on the Kakhovka Dam, and reiterated Cyprus’ solidarity with Ukraine.

Foreign ministers also endorsed Council conclusions on further strengthening the EU’s role in global digital affairs. Kombos stressed that Cyprus fully supports the view that the EU should intensify its efforts to play a leading role in shaping the global digital agenda.

During an exchange of views on the situation in Tunisia, Kombos expressed Cyprus’ support for the EU’s efforts to revitalise relations with the country, noting that Tunisia is of strategic interest to the EU. Also, during a discussion on Serbia – Kosovo relations and the latest EU mediation efforts, the foreign minister reiterated Cyprus’ support for the Belgrade – Pristina Dialogue.

There was also an exchange of views on EU – Latin America and Caribbean relations ahead of the upcoming summit with the countries of the region. The foreign ministers also discussed developments in Somalia and relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.