Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday called for closer EU-Trkiye ties and expressed support for efforts toward a political settlement of the Cyprus problem. Speaking at a news conference in Berlin with the Greek Cypriot Administration leader, Merz said they discussed Nicosia's program for its upcoming six-month EU presidency, which begins in January.
According to Anadolu Agency, Merz highlighted the importance of cooperation with Trkiye in light of the current geopolitical situation. He shared details of his recent visit to Ankara and mentioned discussions with the president about further opportunities for strengthening ties between Trkiye and the European Union. Merz appreciated Greek Cypriot Administration leader Nikos Christodoulides for his constructive approach ahead of assuming the EU's rotating presidency and acknowledged Nicosia's concerns.
During his visit to Trkiye's capital Ankara last month, Chancellor Merz emphasized the emergence of a "new geopolitical phase" characterized by intense competition among major powers. He suggested reviving a strategic dialogue between Europe and Trkiye, focusing on enhancing cooperation in defense, the economy, and energy. On Friday, he reiterated Trkiye's strategic importance as an EU candidate, noting its significant role in NATO and efforts to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip, while also emphasizing the need for Trkiye to fulfill the EU's political criteria.
Addressing Germany's potential role in easing tensions between Turkish and Greek Cypriot sides, Chancellor Merz mentioned reviewing various options and concrete proposals with Christodoulides. He expressed Germany's readiness to actively participate in the process during the Greek Cypriot EU presidency, aiming to take initial steps towards overcoming the island's division.
The Greek Cypriot leader, while withholding details of his proposal, expressed a positive approach during their presidency, aspiring to achieve beneficial outcomes for all parties involved, both regarding the Cyprus issue and European-Turkish relations. Christodoulides emphasized the goal of achieving truly positive results.