Cyprus supports new package of sanctions against Russia, says FM

Cyprus supports the 13th package of sanctions against Russia, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said during the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels.

Speaking on 19 February, Kombos pointed out that the issue of sanctions circumvention remains the main factor undermining the joint efforts.

In his debate before the Council, according to a statement, the Minister referred also to the Middle East and the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, underlining that “only the prospect of reviving the peace process can pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the area”.

The EU Foreign Ministers discussed also the latest developments in the Sahel. They also held an informal meeting with Yulia Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny's widow.

As regards the situation in Ukraine the Cyprus FM reiterated Cyprus’ firm support to the people and Government of Ukraine and expressed the “readiness of Cyprus to support the new package of sanctions”.

Kombos added that the best guarantee for Ukraine's security is its European course.

According to press reports, the EU member states are discussing, for the first time, the inclusion in the list of sanctions and companies from third countries, among others from Turkey, Serbia, China and India, due to their participation in the circumvention of EU sanctions against Turkey.

In the announcement issued by Cyprus’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs it is also stated that in the context of the discussion on the Middle East Kombos referred once again to the alarming humanitarian situation prevailing in Gaza, stressing the need for the protection of all civilians.

He also repeated the call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and noted that it is imperative to prevent further escalation and possible diffusion of the crisis in the region.

The FM also underlined that Cyprus is ready to contribute with all the means at its disposal, both for sending humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza and for the prospect of reviving the peace process.

During the discussion on the latest developments in the Sahel, it is noted, Cyprus pointed to the importance of adapting the EU's strategic orientation to the region, focusing on support for the societies of the region, but also on the challenges faced by the states which include among others dealing with both the terrorist threat and the instrumentalization of migrants.

Prior to the FAC the EU Foreign Ministers had an informal working breakfast with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, during which they were briefed on efforts to maintain the nuclear safety of the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine.

(Source: CNA)