President Christodoulides to Invite Erdoğan to 2026 EU Regional Summit

In a report published by Philenews, Christodoulides confirmed that as part of Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency, all regional leaders will be invited to the summit, including Erdoğan. This marks a new foreign policy approach by the Republic of Cyprus within the EU framework.

Christodoulides emphasized, “Turkey will always be geographically Cyprus’ neighbor. We desire a Turkey that is close to the European Union. This entirely depends on the steps Turkey will take,” underlining that responsibility for relations with the EU lies with Ankara.

Regarding the expanded informal five-party Cyprus conference planned in New York, Christodoulides said a date has been set but will be officially announced by the United Nations. The meeting is expected to take place in the second half of September.

Highlighting the significance of UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Cyprus María Ángela Holguín’s visits to Brussels and London, Christodoulides noted that Holguín will visit Cyprus before the summit and that efforts are ongoing for a positive outcome.

Referring to a joint letter previously sent by the European Commission and Council presidents, which symbolizes the EU’s interest in the Cyprus issue, Christodoulides stressed the need to strengthen the EU’s role in the Cyprus conflict. He also pointed out that Johannes Hahn, appointed as the EU Special Representative for Turkey, is actively involved in the process.

Christodoulides said Hahn will engage with Holguín and meet with the European Council President, adding, “Hahn does not need to disclose daily meetings. He knows what to do and maintains direct contact with the Commission President. We hear daily public statements about Turkey’s interest in the EU, including Erdoğan’s messages to the French President.”

On the upcoming elections in Northern Cyprus, Christodoulides described the electoral process as a “postponing factor” for the peace talks. He stated, “We must speak the truth. I prefer not to respond to Mr. Tatar’s daily personal attacks against me. These are part of the election process and naturally complicate the situation.”

However, he stressed the importance of the UN Secretary-General’s call for expanded talks, saying, “This invitation shows there are ideas to advance the process. I do not underestimate the election process but believe a complementary plan is being prepared.”