President Christodoulides and Turkey’s Erdogan agreed on the need for dialogue during a brief conversation at the European Political Community summit in Tirana.
Christodoulides told Erdogan they should speak directly about Cyprus and EU-Turkey relations now that the EU has appointed a special envoy.
Erdogan responded positively, expressing support for dialogue and interest in improving EU-Turkey relations, according to sources.
Before the summit, Christodoulides described the European Political Community gathering as “very important” and noted that the forum provides an opportunity for “open and honest dialogue” on common challenges between EU members and aspiring countries.
“The Cyprus issue is a European matter,” Christodoulides said, referencing the appointment of Johannes Hahn as special envoy by the European Commission President.
Christodoulides characterised Hahn as a “political personality” who served three times as Commissioner and held ministerial positions in Austria, demonstrating the EU’s practical interest in solving “its own problem” while supporting efforts to restart negotiations on Cyprus.
The Cypriot President acknowledged Turkey’s interest in strengthening relations with the EU, stating: “We cannot change geography. We prefer having a neighbour close to the European Union, provided this neighbour behaves like EU member states, respects EU principles and values, and respects international law.”
Hahn’s appointment was highlighted as significant due to his previous experience with EU-Turkey relations as a Commissioner, with Christodoulides suggesting Hahn understands how Turkey’s aspirations can be advanced through “specific positive developments” regarding both the Cyprus issue and Turkey’s Cyprus-related obligations.
