French President Emmanuel Macron is “committed” to the search for a solution to the Cyprus problem, according to reports published on Tuesday.
The Cyprus News Agency reported that Macron had issued a message to his Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides for Cyprus’ independence day, saying, “you know you can count on France’s continued support on this matter.”
“Although this year marked 60 years since the creation of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp) and 50 years since the Turkish invasion of northern Cyprus, France remains committed to the search for a fair and sustainable solution to the Cyprus problem,” he said.
Additionally, he said he wished to express his “warmest best wishes” to both Christodoulides and all Cypriots on behalf of himself and the French people.
“The bonds of friendship which unite our two countries are more necessary than ever in an unstable international environment,” he said.
“Faced with the dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East and the urgent humanitarian situation in Gaza, I would like to welcome your mobilisation and thank you for the Republic of Cyprus’ support for the French forces,” he added.
To this end, he said that “apart from the strategic nature of our defence cooperation, this is a testament to the spirit of solidarity which governs our relationship.”
“As 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Cyprus’ accession to the European Union, I am delighted that France and Cyprus share a common vision for a Europe which is more united, more sovereign, more democratic, and more competitive.
“I know I can count on your support to ensure that the work we are undertaking to reduce our dependence and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy will continue with ambition and determination,” he added.
He went on to express his hope that the next 12 months will “provide an opportunity to further intensify our excellent bilateral relations in all areas, especially in education, economic and energy cooperation, and defence.”
