In New York, the EU leadership and the leaders of the Middle East underline shared security, cooperation and diplomacy as the only solution to stability.
The Cyprus was at the centre of important diplomatic processes with the participation of leaders of the European Union and Middle East states, at a time of intense regional tensions on the occasion of the Summit. The conversations highlighted the shared concern for security and stability in the wider region, as well as the need for a coordinated political and diplomatic approach to the ongoing crises. Particular emphasis was placed on the interdependence of Europe and the Middle East, with participants recognizing that instability in the region has direct implications for European security and strategic balance.
With a clear message that the security of the Middle East cannot be treated as an alien issue to Europe, the joint meeting of European leaders with heads of state of the region concluded in Nicosia, in the context of the informal European Council meeting in Cyprus, ProtoThema.gr.
Christodoulides: Common understanding of risks
Cyprus President Nicos Christodoulides said the discussion focused on finding solutions, with diplomacy remaining at the forefront. He stressed that the security of the Gulf region is also the security of Europe, noting that today’s discussion highlighted two elements: a common understanding of the risks and a common will to address the challenges.
Antonio Costa: Diplomacy is the only viable path
European Council President Antonio Costa noted that the situation in the Middle East is deteriorating day by day and underlined that the European Union stands by the affected states and their peoples. He placed particular emphasis on respect for international law, saying that diplomacy is the only viable path.
Fon der Leyen: Not just crisis management
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the ceasefire agreements, but noted that temporary arrangements are not enough and that the goal must be a lasting peace. Her message was that Europe sees the states of the region not only as partners in crisis management, but also as partners for the future.
As she said, Europe’s security is inextricably linked to the security of the countries of the region. At last, a geographical truth that Europe remembered without the need for a map and three committees.
Lebanon asks for support
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun described the situation in his country in dramatic tones, saying Lebanon is facing war before it can recover from past crises. He stressed that what is happening in his country is not limited to the Lebanese border, but affects the entire region.
Al Sharaa: Syria needs Europe
Syrian President Ahmed Hussein al-Saraa spoke of the need for political maturity, stressing that Syria has responsibilities but also heavy repercussions from the abnormal situation. He said that “Syria needs Europe and Europe needs Syria”, calling for European intervention in the face of Israeli strikes on Syrian soil. His presence at the Cyprus summit had already been confirmed by international media.
