Speeches

Madam President, Serbia is a country that is on the European road, a road that requires dialogue, respect and democratic maturity. Violence has no place and is absolutely reprehensible wherever it comes from, whether by the police or by the citizens. Violence only brings violence, it does not solve problems, it sharpens them. Governments have a duty to listen, to listen to society, to give space to the voice of the citizen. Citizens, on the other hand, have a responsibility to express their protest with respect to the Constitution, the institutions and their own country. The road to Europe passes through trust and trust is built through dialogue. Serbia and its citizens deserve the future they dream of. Europe is here, not as a judge and a punisher, but as a partner, as a companion in this effort. The solution is always dialogue. The responsibility is all of us and the hope is the greatest force, for a Serbia that is peaceful, for a Serbia that is European. That is what I will continue to support.

Mr President, Commissioner, the Cyprus issue is not just a matter of trust. It's a matter of invasion and occupation, and you should know that very well. A Turkish invasion 51 years unpunished. Colonization? 51 years unpunished. Rape by the Turkish army of hundreds of girls and women? With impunity. Executions of children and men in front of their families? With impunity. They took our land, they took our lives, they took half our country. Cyprus is still bleeding, the wounds are not closing. Ladies and gentlemen, the list of Turkey's crimes against my country is huge and does not end. What ends is our patience and tolerance, because what happens is complicity. It seems that Cyprus in the eyes of some is less Europe for the union of 27 than Ukraine. 51 years later, where are we? With Mr. Erdoğan and his adopter Tatar talking about two states, continuing to colonize, usurp our properties and provoke. And, instead of being subject to sanctions, demand and earn European points. We don't have enough verbal convictions anymore. Works and deeds are needed. The crimes of the intruder are not time-barred, no matter how many years pass. We will be here to remind you and rub in the face of all those who try to convince us that Turkey is a strategic partner. Europe must react even now. Cyprus is Europe. Having it is an insult and a disgrace not only to us but also to you.

Mr President, Commissioner, the Cyprus issue is not just a matter of trust. It's a matter of invasion and occupation, and you should know that very well. A Turkish invasion 51 years unpunished. Colonization? 51 years unpunished. Rape by the Turkish army of hundreds of girls and women? With impunity. Executions of children and men in front of their families? With impunity. They took our land, they took our lives, they took half our country. Cyprus is still bleeding, the wounds are not closing. Ladies and gentlemen, the list of Turkey's crimes against my country is huge and does not end. What ends is our patience and tolerance, because what happens is complicity. It seems that Cyprus in the eyes of some is less Europe for the union of 27 than Ukraine. 51 years later, where are we? With Mr. Erdoğan and his adopter Tatar talking about two states, continuing to colonize, usurp our properties and provoke. And, instead of being subject to sanctions, demand and earn European points. We don't have enough verbal convictions anymore. Works and deeds are needed. The crimes of the intruder are not time-barred, no matter how many years pass. We will be here to remind you and rub in the face of all those who try to convince us that Turkey is a strategic partner. Europe must react even now. Cyprus is Europe. Having it is an insult and a disgrace not only to us but also to you.

Mr President, in a few days NATO will meet again and Europe must go there with a plan and a compass. We cannot talk about common defence and expect the other side of the Atlantic to watch our backs. It is time for a Euro-army – not to replace NATO but to serve the planning, autonomy and credibility of the European Union. We cannot fail to have a clear timetable. We can't go watching and doing. Threats don't wait. We must act now. I can't help but say the following: My country, Cyprus, a member state of the European Union, remains occupied by a NATO member country. Turkey is playing a double game in Europe and our tolerance becomes complicity. Time to speak clearly and with deeds. The NATO summit cannot be just another meeting. It must be a turning point. If we want security, we need strategy. That must be the point now. Strategy and action.

Madam President, Commissioner, seven out of ten Europeans believe that corruption is a reality in their country. So let's say some truths. The rule of law in the European Union is seriously deficient and we are all aware of it. It's not a theoretical problem, it's existential. We violate it every day, not just with our tolerance but with our own decisions. Some see Europe only as a big bank: As long as the money runs and everything else is secondary. Solidarity has become voluntary and – in many cases – selective. Look at my country, Cyprus. In the 51 years since the invasion, Turkey has occupied European territory, threatened member states with casus belli and violated every concept of international law. And we are giving it billions and making it a strategic partner in the SAFE regulation. Is that the rule of law? A country that acts like a rioter is rewarded, instead of being on the stool and being held accountable for its actions? If this is the rule of law of the Union, then we have lost our compass and orientation.

Madam President, Commissioner, the title of the debate refers to an illegal visit. Let's talk honestly. It is not just that, it is a show of contempt for international law, UN resolutions and the European Union itself. And – I am sorry, but I will say it – as long as we remain silent, Erdoğan will continue to do his thing and we will only denounce every time he does something similar and illegal, which goes against international law and our principles and values. We cannot speak of European values and at the same time turn a blind eye to such challenges. Cyprus is not a distant land, it is a European territory. The illegality in my country did not occur only yesterday or the day before yesterday with the arrival of Mr Erdoğan. Illegality on this European soil has been a trauma to the heart of Europe for almost 51 years. I call on all colleagues, institutions and Member States to stop treating Turkey as a country that whatever it does is okay, because it is big and strong. Challenges and illegalities are not addressed with wishes and appeasement but with actions and deterrence.

Mr President, I find it very strange that, although Chair of the Delegation to the EU-Serbia Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee, I did not even have the right to a minute's speech and I have to catch-the-eye to say a few words. This will be judged by my political group. I have said it many times and I repeat it: Serbia's position is in the European Union for many different reasons. She needs us and we need her. There are problems in too many accession countries and we are talking to them and giving them perspective. We are talking here with Turkey, which occupies European territory. And are we closing the door on an accession country like Serbia? So we want to throw it into Mr Putin's arms? Let's get this straight. If we want Serbs in the European Union, we have to be honest with them. If we don't want them, let them know. We cannot block them every time they approach the door of the European Union. When we do this to them, we lead them outside the European Union and we lead them exactly where some colleagues have said: in the arms of Russia. I don't think that's what we want. We must give perspective to the Serbian people if we want to help them. Are there problems? Yeah, there are, and we're gonna have to look them right in the eye. But not to close the door.

Mr President, Commissioner, we thank friend Amor for his hard work. Having the words "Turkey" and "progress" in the same sentence is contradictory and provocative. Turkey is not moving towards Europe, but is taking steps hostile to European values, the rule of law, human rights. He walks à la carte, enjoying privileges without any obligation whatsoever. The Erdoğan dictatorship imprisons journalists, political opponents, directly threatens war with two Member States of the Union and we close our eyes and ears, as long as we buy our peace with agreements, economic benefits or arms sales. Some even insist on giving it a leading role in European defence architecture. This is not the Europe we believe in, but a group of interests. This Turkey has neither had nor has a place in the European Union. This Erdoğan Turkey is an enemy of our principles and values. And yet, we continue to talk about dialogue, about progress, about geostrategic interests. Let's say it clearly; Some in Europe are unfortunately selling off our principles for a few business deals with Ankara, even if it owns European territory in Cyprus. And it's time to stop pretending we don't see it. Even a few of us will be here to remember this. As long as there is an occupation of Cyprus, as long as Erdoğan talks about two states and oppresses the Turkish people, this country has no place in the European family.

Mr President, Commissioner, the budget and European funds must focus on the well-being of European citizens. They are not just numbers, they are political choices that determine lives. As rapporteur in two important committees on the budget of the European Union, I welcome the adoption of important amendments that cover key issues and reflect the real needs of European societies. Strengthening European borders and the use of appropriate surveillance tools are essential, especially for frontline Member States such as Cyprus. Strengthening European defence and protecting against hybrid threats is necessary. Promoting the rule of law, supporting press officers and supporting vulnerable social groups are our key priorities. The European budget must therefore be a tool for social cohesion and security, reflect our values and principles at all levels and leave no one behind.

Madam President, I would like to thank you for accepting our request to make this statement on the Cyprus problem, at another turning point for my country. Half a century has passed since the Turkish invasion and occupation of half my country. Today, as you said, a new effort to resume talks under the UN Secretary-General is underway. An effort that should lead to a solution that includes the withdrawal of Turkish troops, the abolition of guarantees and the creation of a European state, based on European principles and values. We demand more active European involvement in the process. The reason is very simple. Europe is our only support and pillar of security. Dear colleagues, I urge you to remain by our side, claiming with us our self-evident right to live free in our homeland, in a united European Cyprus – home for all its children – without armies of occupation, without foreign guarantors. A European Cyprus cannot be held hostage by Turkey. The only guarantee for us is Europe. Join your voice with us. Cyprus is Europe.

Madam President, Commissioner, congratulations to my colleague Isabel Lima on her excellent work. The European Union must be consistent with the principles and values it defends. We cannot have different reactions to the same events, depending on who is responsible or what our interests are. This selective sensitivity disappoints pro-European forces and undermines our credibility. Why is there deafening silence towards dictators such as Erdoğan, who imprisons journalists, suppresses every different voice, tramples on human rights and violates every principle of justice and equality? The people on the streets of Turkey are demanding democracy, and instead of freedom they are getting repression, persecution and imprisonment. And we are silent, ready to give Erdoğan what he demands of us. Why is it? Because he's powerful? If Europe wants to be a beacon of democracy and justice, it must stop being afraid to say things by name. Silence cannot be our policy, because a Europe that is silent is a Europe that consents. And we can't consent to injustice. Human rights are the basis of our existence as Europe. So let's keep them for everyone, away from interests.

Madam President, Commissioner, Europe can no longer rely on third parties for its security and defence. The forthcoming White Paper on the future of European defence must pave the way for the creation of a European force capable of defending its borders and interests. That's what I've been supporting since the first day of my election. But we cannot start wrong. And I want to be clear. Turkey, a country that illegally occupies European territory, cannot participate in this effort of the European Defence Mechanism. A country that is a pirate in the Mediterranean and constantly threatens other neighboring states. A country that did not comply with the sanctions against Russia, on the contrary, strengthened financially and never recognized Hamas as a terrorist organization. I urge you to consider the disastrous consequences of such a development. Steps must be taken towards defence autonomy. I strongly support this. But not to take steps in the wrong direction. Thank you very much.

Madam President, Commissioner, allow me to welcome the Serbian friends who are in the gallery watching the debate. I want to assure them that, as Chair of the Delegation to the EU-Serbia Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee, I am doing everything I can to convince them that Serbia needs Europe and Europe has a lot to gain from Serbia. The country is at a critical crossroads, where political stability and its European path are intertwined. I am aware of the internal situation and one of those who believe that the country's European course is the only way forward. I will not go into details of the chapters that have been or will be opened. All I'm going to say is that there's still a lot to do and we're here to do it. Serbia is one of the most important countries in the Western Balkans and a pillar of stability in the region. Her place is in the family of the European Union. Democracy and the rule of law are the only answer to any problems and challenges of today. The Serbs, I am sure, dear colleagues, know what they have to do to lead their country on the European path and in this effort they will find us next to them.

Madam President, the United States is and will remain a strategic partner of the European Union. Our historical ties and our trade relationship are vital. However, cooperation cannot be based on weakness. Europe must not be the weak link with anyone. In any partnership, we have to be a strong player. This means that we need to take measures and take meaningful action. To ensure that European businesses and our citizens are not the losers in trade disputes. Our response to the tariffs cannot be just verbal. Strategic preparation is needed. A strong, united and resolute Europe is the only one that can enforce respect and shape international trade. Multilateral cooperation or tariffs? The answer is clear. Cooperation, but from a position of strength and taking countermeasures to protect European interests, which I would like to hear.

Mr President, Commissioner, the time has come to decide and determine what our common future as Europe is. Developments highlight the need to redefine our geopolitical position. The new Trump administration highlights precisely this need: review our relations with our most important strategic partner. We are partners, we share common values and historical ties. But even the closest partners negotiate and often compete. Europe must negotiate from a position of strength, protecting the interests of its citizens and strengthening its autonomy and defence. Our relationship with the United States must be based on mutual respect and a balance of power, ensuring that Europe remains strong, competitive and ready to face any challenge, be it energy, technology or competitiveness. Together we must put it into practice, because only together can we achieve our goals. Together, however, there is something else. Mutual respect.

Madam President, it struck me that there is no one from the Commission to listen to what we are saying. The world is changing rapidly and Europe must make itself a strong player and protagonist. Enlargement is not just a geopolitical necessity. It is the only option for a united, secure and prosperous Europe. The preparation of the European Union-Western Balkans Summit is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to this strengthening with the enlargement of the Union. I know that the road is difficult, as the criteria and challenges are many. But we are opening and not closing the door of the Union, offering the accession countries of the Western Balkans a clear perspective. For my part, as chairman of the European Union-Serbia Delegation, I will do everything to convince Belgrade that it needs us and we need it. At the same time, I recall that integration requires the rule of law and adaptation to democracy. But I want to be clear. Attacks like this on my colleague Fredis Beleris in Albania, not only have no place here, but they are absolutely unacceptable and reprehensible.

Mr President, Commissioner, as the European Parliament we have a responsibility to safeguard democracy and exercise human rights in a rapidly changing world. Social media is like a knife. Depends on whose hand you find yourself in. If used correctly, they promote democracy. If used for other purposes, they may even destroy it. Fake news, algorithms promoting extreme and directed narratives undermine our democracy and the right of European citizens to the truth. On the other hand, no one can ignore that they are a source of information, strengthening the right of citizens to be aware of everything. In saying this, I strongly argue that the European Union must act swiftly and impose transparency and accountability rules on digital platforms. Citizens deserve a public debate based on the truth. And we, as the European Parliament, must ensure it.

Mr President, Commissioner, the situation in Syria is not just a matter of geopolitical turmoil, but a humanitarian tragedy with incalculable consequences. Millions of people have been displaced, thousands have lost their lives, and images of refugee camps and executions in the middle of the street are a disgrace to all of us. The Syrian coast is only 100 nautical miles from my country, Cyprus, the closest European point to the burning area. We saluted Assad's fall as Europe. But we did not say how we protect the thousands of Christians, but also other religious groups, who, as we see from the images arriving from the region, are not only endangered, but also targeted. The United States, Russia, Turkey, Israel, Iran are the players in a huge and dangerous geopolitical game, in which Europe must be present. Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, we must take the lead. There must be a unified and radical response to the crisis on the European side. In this effort, Commissioner, you will find us all by your side. And a word of advice, if I may. Don't trust Erdoğan and Turkey too much. They own European soil.

Mr President, let me be a little keen tonight. 41 years since the illegal proclamation of the pseudo-state, 50 years since the Turkish invasion, and Europe seems incapable of effectively defending Cyprus, but also its own principles and values. How much longer will we allow interests to dominate, sacrificing Cyprus on the altar of Turkish provocation? We're full of words. Let's be clear. When international law was violated in Ukraine, Europe's response was swift, unanimous and harsh. And we have rightly reacted with sanctions, with determination and – above all – with unity. But when Turkey violates every rule in the Mediterranean, invades, occupies and supports a separatist entity in the territory of a Member State, Europe chooses deafening silence and simple verbal condemnation. Why is it? Because he's scared? Because some people take their interests into account with Turkey? Because some in the Union consider Cyprus small, insignificant and expendable? This, ladies and gentlemen, is unacceptable. Europe shows every day that it applies double standards. It closes its eyes to the ongoing Turkish occupation. It allows threats and challenges to continue without consequences. And as if all this were not enough, we also have leaders such as the Prime Minister of Hungary, Mr. Orban, who presides over the European Union, taking steps to upgrade the pseudo-state. That's enough now. Europe has failed to live up to its history, protect its own borders and defend its members. Solidarity is not a slogan, it is an act. Whether we stand in solidarity with Cyprus and the ideals of freedom and justice, or the European Union surrenders to the appetites of Ankara and every Erdogan. We in Cyprus, even on our own, will not stop defending principles and claiming justice. Just things.

Madam President, Mr Borrell, when human lives are lost and when crimes are committed, we are all accountable, whether by our participation or by our indifference to this tragedy. I have heard a lot since the beginning of the debate, a lot of convictions, a lot of words. I have also heard of the need to hold a humanitarian summit on this issue. So while everyone is talking, the only country that is doing anything right now to humanitarianly help the situation in Lebanon is my homeland, little Cyprus. Small in size, large in soul, a small state that experienced war and refugees, is currently the only refuge for the persecuted of war, as the first safe European territory. There is no other way than to insist on a ceasefire and to find a solution that will immediately stop the bloodshed. Right now my homeland is a lifeline for hundreds of people fleeing the battlefields. But Europe must not leave Cyprus alone in this huge effort to save human lives. Next to my country, in my neighbourhood, a huge catastrophe is taking place, with innocent people, children and civilians being victims. As Cyprus, we are doing our part. But Europe, our family, must also support us and act immediately. Thank you very much.

Mr President, Commissioner, I have always been in favour of a stronger and more integrated Europe in terms of its foreign policy, security, economy and – certainly – its energy autonomy. We are in the right direction, looking for new sources of energy and detoxification from fossil sources. We even see the problems arising from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The European Union must therefore stand on its own two feet when it comes to energy issues. This effort, however, is often attempted to be torpedoed by states that even knock on the door of the Union – and I am referring specifically to Turkey. A recent example is the design of an undersea electricity interconnection between Cyprus and Greece. A project that will unite us energetically with the rest of Europe. It is tragic to fear that Turkey may block the interconnection process because it considers that its own geopolitical interests are not being served. With this at least he threatens every day. Energy policy is being raised for the first time as an important issue in European affairs. After all, the areas that will lead to a stronger Europe are energy security and a common foreign policy. This effort can also be helped by my country, Cyprus, which with its own natural gas reserves can strengthen the energy autonomy of our European family. So let's start our energy detox from our home, from the inside.

Madam President, thank you for giving me the floor. Thank you for your reference to Cyprus; It shows that you are not forgetting us. I ask for the floor to remind all colleagues that these days are fifty years since Turkey's invasion of Cyprus. Fifty years of being a refugee and separating my country. Half a century of occupation of European territory. Fifty years we have been refugees in our own country. I took the floor to ask everyone to stand by us in our effort to reunite and liberate our homeland; in our effort to live as free, equal European citizens in our homeland. The European Union is our family. It is our support and our only hope. Colleagues, do not forget the invasion and occupation of Cyprus. Fifty years is too long.

Mr President, Commissioner, the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East is a tragedy. My homeland, Cyprus, is close to the region and although small in size, it shows the way for initiatives to protect civilians and create a humanitarian corridor, but it requires synergies and collaborations from all. Of course there is a need for a ceasefire as soon as possible. No sane person wants this tragedy to continue. But at the same time, be honest. The disarmament of the terrorist organization Hamas is also a priority, so that there is no longer a danger to the people of Israel. And because we are talking about the danger of a general ignition in the region, let's not forget some of our partners who play it, and after supporting Putin, Hamas, Hezbollah, they are now also supporting the Houthis. And of course I am referring to those who did not understand Turkey and Mr Erdoğan.

Madam President, Commissioner, public health is a good to which all European citizens should have equal access. Public health is a good that every Member State has not only an obligation but also a social responsibility to ensure. There must be equal access, equal treatment for European citizens, in whichever Member State they reside. The European Health Data Space is the backbone of the European Health Union. We have learned many lessons from the Covid pandemic, notably that the issue of health knows no borders and should be addressed collectively and as a priority. Every life is precious and should be treated as such. It is not conceivable that a child would die in Romania or Cyprus, when it could be saved in Germany, for example. Commissioner, I would like to congratulate you and thank you for working with dedication in this direction, to eliminate the inequalities that exist, for a better and healthier world.