Tag: Trump

  • Kombos Urges EU to Foster Cooperation and Dialogue with the US

    Kombos Urges EU to Foster Cooperation and Dialogue with the US

    Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos emphasised the importance of maintaining a forward-looking cooperation and constructive dialogue with the United States. Speaking on Wednesday, he stated that this longstanding partnership must be preserved, particularly in times of uncertainty.

    • The overarching goal remains clear: to avoid escalation, which could detrimentally affect both the EU and US, as well as transatlantic relations.

    Kombos highlighted the need to focus on areas of convergence while also addressing contentious issues. “We seek to maintain a forward-looking cooperation and a constructive dialogue with the United States,” he remarked.

    Concerns over Greenland’s status have raised tensions, especially following previous demands from former President Donald Trump for the territory to be transferred to US control. Kombos noted that the EU has been following these developments closely, advocating for sincerity and stability in fundamental values and respect for geopolitical integrity.

    He expressed full solidarity with Denmark regarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. These statements came after European Affairs Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna praised the EU’s unity and resolve in response to Trump’s Greenland comments during a European general affairs council meeting in Brussels.

    Raouna stated, “The EU acted with unity, with resolve, demonstrating that even in the most challenging of circumstances, it remains committed to upholding international legality and territorial integrity.” She underscored the necessity of maintaining strong relations with the US while conveying a clear message of unity and determination from the EU.

    As the holder of the Council of the EU’s rotating presidency, Cyprus is focusing on dialogue and diplomacy, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical developments. Raouna’s remarks came alongside President Nikos Christodoulides’ assertion that EU-US relations have not been irreparably harmed by Trump’s rhetoric.

    Christodoulides stated, “We are here to de-escalate, not to escalate,” while reiterating the EU’s commitment to finding positive pathways forward without undermining the sovereignty of any member state. He stressed that the EU respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Denmark and understands the implications of such violations more than any other member state.

    The overarching goal remains clear: to avoid escalation, which could detrimentally affect both the EU and US, as well as transatlantic relations.

  • Gaza peace — Greece and Cyprus Join Trump’s Gaza Peace Council

    Gaza peace — Greece and Cyprus Join Trump’s Gaza Peace Council

    gaza peace — Greece and Cyprus have received invitations from Donald Trump to join a Peace Council that will oversee Gaza’s temporary governance. As two of the 25 founding members, their participation marks a significant moment in international relations, particularly concerning the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

    Gaza peace: New Developments in Gaza Governance

    According to reports from Greek media, the Peace Council includes all participants from the historic Sharm El-Sheikh ceremony. This gathering features notable countries such as France, Canada, various Gulf states, and Turkey, highlighting a united front in support of Gaza’s future.

    Strengthening Regional Influence

    The inclusion of Greece and Cyprus in this council is seen as a boost to their international standing. It underscores their growing role in key geopolitical matters, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions and developments in the region.

    Structure and Objectives of the Peace Council

    The Peace Council is part of the second phase of Trump’s Gaza peace plan, which operates under UN Security Council Resolution 2803. Its primary aim is to provide international oversight during Gaza’s transitional governance and to support stabilisation efforts necessary for implementing the peace agreement.

    Transitional Bodies Established

    To facilitate the work of the Peace Council, two transitional bodies have been created. The Executive Committee will manage the political and operational aspects of the Gaza agreement, while a Palestinian national technocratic committee has been tasked with temporarily governing Gaza during this transition.

    Leadership in the Peace Process

    In a strategic move, former Bulgarian diplomat N. Mladenov has been appointed as the High Representative. His role will involve coordinating the activities of the transitional bodies and the Peace Council, aiming to ensure a smooth governance transition in Gaza.

    International Support and Collaboration

    The Turkish presidency has confirmed that Trump has also invited President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to join the Peace Council. This invitation further illustrates the collaborative nature of the council, with various nations coming together to address the complex challenges facing Gaza.

    The Peace Council’s formation signifies a commitment to stabilising the region and fostering cooperation among nations with vested interests in Gaza’s future governance. As the situation evolves, the roles of Greece, Cyprus, and other member nations will be crucial in shaping the outcomes of this ambitious peace initiative.