Issues related to the assumption of the presidency of the Council of the European Union by the Republic of Cyprus, as well as support to vulnerable people, were discussed in a meeting on Friday between the Deputy Minister of European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, with the Head of Humanitarian Affairs for Missing Persons and the Enclaved, Anna Aristotelous, according to an announcement by the Deputy Ministry.

It is noted that Raouna referred to the preparation for assuming the Presidency, which is progressing “at an intense pace” as from January 1, 2025, the Trio Presidency begins. She also pointed out that consultations will be intensified for the preparation of the national programme of priorities, which will be announced in December 2025.

During the meeting, it said, an extensive discussion took place, on the issues related to the humanitarian aspect of supporting the vulnerable groups of the population, “such as the enclaved and those who resettled in our occupied villages, in which they remain despite the adversities and problems, as well as the children of the missing and the fallen, for which the possibilities of their participation in the processes of the Cyprus Presidency were investigated”.

During the meeting, it adds, there was an exchange of views on suggestions and actions, while it was agreed to continue the cooperation for the support of the vulnerable groups of the population.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. Repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks have so far failed to yield results. The latest round of negotiations, in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana ended inconclusively.