The EU High Representative Responsible for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini emphasized that the solution of the Cyprus problem is highly important for Europe.

In the framework of the one-day visit to Cyprus, Mogherini made a statement to the Greek Cypriot newspaper Politis and emphasized the fundamental importance of the solution of the Cyprus problem for the EU and also for security and stability in the region.  Mogherini said that they welcomed the start of the negotiations and expressed appreciations to the efforts that contribute to a positive atmosphere and created a momentum.

Mogherini stated that the EU is playing an active role in the process; they support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Adviser on Cyprus Espen Barth Eide and they promote the island’s economic integration.  Mogherini also stated that the European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker’s Cyprus visit provided contribution to the momentum.

Mogherini said that they were ready to contribute with all kinds of help to sides or to the UN and added that “If all parties will continue to play such a constructive role, it is not unrealistic to say that the solution of the Cyprus problem is in our hands”.

Touching on issues related to the Middle East, Mogherini said that, when the EU policy was discussed South Cyprus had an important voice in the region and said that it would continue to be so.