Speaking on Euronews’ flagship program The Europe Conversation, Christodoulides outlined his broader vision — not only for Cyprus’s future but also for a stronger, more united European Union and a lasting peace in the Middle East, particularly Gaza. His remarks come just months before Cyprus is set to assume the rotating EU presidency, giving Nicosia a stronger platform to advocate for dialogue and stability in the region.
The president’s announcement follows a major political shift in Northern Cyprus, where Tufan Erhüman, a pro-EU Social Democrat, secured a decisive victory in local elections. Erhüman’s campaign centered on the federal reunification of Cyprus, a goal that aligns closely with UN parameters and long-standing EU positions. His win has reignited cautious optimism for a breakthrough in the frozen peace process, last attempted during the 2017 Crans-Montana talks in Switzerland — negotiations that ultimately collapsed over security guarantees and power-sharing disagreements.
Christodoulides emphasized that the new political momentum presents a rare opportunity. “The division of our island cannot be the legacy we leave to the next generation,” he said, adding that Cyprus’s strategic position between Europe and the Middle East gives it a special role in promoting dialogue, energy cooperation, and humanitarian aid — particularly in the context of the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Observers note that with both communities showing renewed interest in dialogue and a more engaged EU leadership, conditions may finally be aligning for a new diplomatic chapter. However, long-standing obstacles — including Ankara’s stance on security and sovereignty — remain formidable.
Still, as Cyprus prepares for its upcoming EU presidency, Christodoulides’s message is clear: reunification, European solidarity, and peace in the region are not distant ideals but achievable goals — if there is political courage on all sides.
