Meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Slovakia, Mr. Robert Kaliňák.
At the centre of our meeting was the further strengthening of the defence cooperation between Cyprus and Slovakia, as well as issues of defence and security.
At the European level, we highlighted the need for greater prioritisation of defence and security issues on the European agenda and the utilisation of European tools, such as SAFE. The EU cannot apply double standards to violations of the same fundamental principles of International Law, as in the cases of Cyprus and Ukraine.
I stressed the importance of protecting the external borders and strengthening European defence capability. Turkey must fully fulfil its European and Cyprus related obligations. Since it illegally occupies European territory, it cannot participate in European programmes, such as SAFE, without its obligations towards the EU and the Republic of Cyprus being taken into account. The same applies to the upgrading of the EU Turkey Customs Union.
Particular reference was made to the presence of Slovak soldiers in UNFICYP. The assurance that Slovakia will continue its presence in Cyprus for as long as necessary constitutes a practical expression of solidarity with the Cypriot people and commitment to international legality.
I briefed Mr. Kaliňák on the latest developments in the Cyprus issue and reiterated that the demands of the Turkish side for a two state solution will never be accepted.
We continue to work for a solution based on the resolutions of the United Nations, the negotiating acquis, and the principles and values of the European Union.
: Annita Demetriou
President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus