“Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security” – von der Leyen

This was stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the opening ceremony of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the country’s capital, Nicosia, Ukrinform reports.

She recalled a recent statement by the President of Cyprus about his country’s commitment to Europe, which is “united in purpose and based on solidarity.”

“We see it clearly in the central priority of your Presidency – to build a safer and more independent Europe. That responsibility begins in Ukraine, because Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security, and together we will work to deliver a just and lasting peace, my dear friend Volodymyr (Zelensky), and yesterday’s meeting in Paris was a very significant step in this direction,” von der Leyen said, adding that the EU will continue to advance the path of Ukraine and Moldova toward accession, “because a free and prosperous Ukraine and a united and prosperous Moldova belong strong in the EU.”

She also reminded that Cyprus is still waiting for the fulfillment of the promise to reunify the country.

“Few places in the European Union understand as clearly what it means to live with the consequences of division and at the same time to refuse to let that division to define the future. That is why it is so fitting that Cyprus assumes the EU Presidency at this moment. The European Union itself was born from conflict. Our Union is not perfect, but it is a promise that cooperation is stronger than confrontation, that law is stronger than power,” emphasized the head of the European Commission.

She added that these principles apply not only to the European Union but also to Greenland.

“Cyprus brings to this Presidency a unique moral authority. As a country at the crossroads of continents, cultures, and crises, Cyprus understands the strategic importance of peace and stability in our neighborhood, the urgency of security in an uncertain world, and the enduring value of the international law,” von der Leyen said.

She stressed that for the European Union, a comprehensive, fair, and long-term resolution of the Cyprus issue remains an absolute priority.

As reported by Ukrinform, the official ceremony marking the start of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU is taking place today in Nicosia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky hopes that during Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency, all negotiation clusters for EU accession will simultaneously open for Ukraine and Moldova.