Tag: US

  • 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.

  • Cyprus Suspends Parcel Post to the US Amid Taxation Changes

    Cyprus Suspends Parcel Post to the US Amid Taxation Changes

    parcel post — Cyprus has announced a halt on parcel post to the US, affecting all shipments containing goods. This suspension was confirmed by the postal services on Monday, citing new taxation regulations from the United States.

    • For now, Cypriots aiming to send packages to the US will need to seek alternative methods or wait for the resumption of services.

    Effective from August 29, the US will implement changes regarding the taxation of incoming parcels. In light of these adjustments, Cyprus has decided to temporarily cease the acceptance of all items for postal services, including EMS, parcels, letter mail, and QuickPost.

    The postal services have assured the public that letters and documents will still be processed as usual, allowing for continued communication despite the suspension of goods shipments. However, the suspension will remain in effect until the necessary procedures are clarified and a cooperative agreement is established with airlines.

    The announcement has prompted questions among residents and businesses that rely on parcel services to send goods to the US. As the situation evolves, the postal services are expected to provide updates on when normal operations will resume.

    For now, Cypriots aiming to send packages to the US will need to seek alternative methods or wait for the resumption of services.