Speeches

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the horrific terrorist attack on the Church of Prophet Elijah in Damascus, which left dozens dead and wounded, demonstrates the tragic reality experienced by religious minorities in Syria. We strongly condemn any heinous act of violence targeting innocent believers in worship and express our sincere condolences to the families of the victims. The presence of Christianity in Syria is deeply rooted in the history of the region and the Orthodox community is an integral part of Syria's rich cultural and religious heritage. It is our duty to defend the fundamental rights of all religious minorities and to demand that the Syrian authorities and the international community ensure the protection, freedom and safety of Christian communities and all minorities in the country. Europe must help defend religious freedom and the protection of Christian communities, wherever they are, so that they can continue to practice their faith. We must take initiatives for the immediate protection of Christians in Syria. The protection of religious minorities is not only our moral duty, but also a necessary condition for the stability and future of the region.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen. For small Member States such as Cyprus, ensuring sufficient quantities of critical supplies, be it medical equipment medicines or other essential goods, is crucial. The geographical location of Cyprus and its own needs make European solidarity and joint planning essential preconditions for the effective management of future crises. Voluntary joint procurement, as foreseen by recent European initiatives, is the most powerful tool to ensure that no Member State, regardless of size, is left behind in times of crisis. By working together and pooling our market and purchasing power, we can achieve better prices, faster access and a fair distribution of critical stocks. We can't rest. We need to invest in flexible, transparent and coordinated stockpile systems that take into account the needs of all Member States.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen. For small Member States such as Cyprus, ensuring sufficient quantities of critical supplies, be it medical equipment medicines or other essential goods, is crucial. The geographical location of Cyprus and its own needs make European solidarity and joint planning essential preconditions for the effective management of future crises. Voluntary joint procurement, as foreseen by recent European initiatives, is the most powerful tool to ensure that no Member State, regardless of size, is left behind in times of crisis. By working together and pooling our market and purchasing power, we can achieve better prices, faster access and a fair distribution of critical stocks. We can't rest. We need to invest in flexible, transparent and coordinated stockpile systems that take into account the needs of all Member States.

Madam President, today's debate on the European Union's preparedness for forest fires and drought comes at a time when countries in the South, such as Cyprus, are suffering from catastrophic fires and prolonged periods of drought. Early detection, proper preparation and excellent cooperation between Member States and relevant services are needed to effectively address the challenges. We recognise the importance of the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, which makes a substantial contribution to coordination and immediate response, but unfortunately it is not enough to successfully tackle the problem. We need to ensure that the European Union budget, including the next Multiannual Financial Framework, has sufficient resources to prevent, prepare for and respond to drought and fires, and must ensure access to water for all Europeans, especially in countries with prolonged droughts, such as Cyprus.

Madam President, today's debate on the European Union's preparedness for forest fires and drought comes at a time when countries in the South, such as Cyprus, are suffering from catastrophic fires and prolonged periods of drought. Early detection, proper preparation and excellent cooperation between Member States and relevant services are needed to effectively address the challenges. We recognise the importance of the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, which makes a substantial contribution to coordination and immediate response, but unfortunately it is not enough to successfully tackle the problem. We need to ensure that the European Union budget, including the next Multiannual Financial Framework, has sufficient resources to prevent, prepare for and respond to drought and fires, and must ensure access to water for all Europeans, especially in countries with prolonged droughts, such as Cyprus.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, today's debate on the negotiations between the European Union and the United States comes at a crucial time for the future of the European economy. Our common market, the European Union's strongest weapon, is based on entrepreneurship and free trade with our partners around the world. It is precisely for this reason that I want to stress that an economic war will benefit no one, neither in Europe nor in America. On the contrary, we already see that it creates uncertainty, affects businesses, workers and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic. Serious and methodical work is needed to conclude a trade agreement that removes as many obstacles as possible and allows goods and services to move freely, duty-free between the two continents. This will enhance competitiveness, create new opportunities and support sustainable growth.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, today's debate on the negotiations between the European Union and the United States comes at a crucial time for the future of the European economy. Our common market, the European Union's strongest weapon, is based on entrepreneurship and free trade with our partners around the world. It is precisely for this reason that I want to stress that an economic war will benefit no one, neither in Europe nor in America. On the contrary, we already see that it creates uncertainty, affects businesses, workers and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic. Serious and methodical work is needed to conclude a trade agreement that removes as many obstacles as possible and allows goods and services to move freely, duty-free between the two continents. This will enhance competitiveness, create new opportunities and support sustainable growth.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, the success of the European Investment Bank is a cornerstone of Europe's economic growth and cohesion. The EIB has been instrumental in financing strategic projects, fostering innovation, infrastructure and sustainable development in all Member States. I would like to underline with great satisfaction the possibility of financing Cyprus in response to the housing crisis. Following confirmation from the Bank's leadership, I am pleased to announce that our country can use more than €100 million in funding to support students and low-wage households. This development opens new horizons for our young people but also for vulnerable social groups, offering access to decent and affordable housing. Access to affordable housing is a strategic tool that can offer a solution to the demographic problem, motivating young couples to create a family and build their lives with dignity in our country. At the same time, I would like to stress the importance of strengthening cooperation with the private sector. Through innovative synergies we can ensure more effective and efficient investments, aligned with sustainable development priorities and supporting the small and medium-sized enterprises that are the backbone of the European economy.

Madam President, Commissioner, gas fields in the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Republic of Cyprus are not just a national priority; This is a crucial opportunity for the whole of Europe. They can be instrumental in diversifying energy sources, enhancing security of energy supply, as well as facilitating the timely achievement of gas storage targets. What does this mean in practice? A Europe that responds more flexibly to market needs and ensures lower prices for both its citizens and businesses. In this context, our cooperation with reliable partners, such as Israel and Egypt, is of strategic importance. Together we can secure alternative energy sources for Europe and reduce our dependence on non-EU countries that are often intransigent. But more European support is needed for the necessary infrastructure. It is necessary to end the energy isolation of the Eastern Mediterranean and to link it sustainably with the European energy network. It is not only a matter of political will; It is a matter of strategic foresight.

Mr President, today, in the debate on Turkey's progress on its accession path, it is our duty to address Turkey's blatant disregard for international law and its European obligations. 51 years after the illegal invasion and occupation of the northern part of Cyprus, Turkey continues to ignore UN resolutions and its commitments to the European Union. For 51 years, thousands of refugees have been denied the right to return, while our churches and culture have been desecrated. Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, can you imagine being fired from your home? Forbid you to live in it for 51 years? I don't have to imagine it; I'm living it. As a refugee, I can neither live nor visit the house where I was born. Every day is a memory of injustice. Last Saturday, the Turkish president illegally visited our occupied territories, provoking nationalist rhetoric and flouting international legitimacy. And all this without any reaction from the European Union. The European Union cannot remain silent. The European Parliament must react immediately.

Mr President, Commissioner, the Multiannual Financial Framework is the tool by which we turn the priorities of the European Union into actions. It is the means by which we ensure a Union that meets the needs of all European citizens, effectively addressing the economic, social and climate challenges of our time. As rapporteur and shadow rapporteur on opinions from the Committee on Public Health, the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety and the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs, together with my colleagues, we have worked to strengthen policies that support European citizens, such as innovation, empowering local communities, strengthening public health and the green transition. It is equally important that we were given the opportunity to promote the interests of small states, such as Cyprus, on issues such as water and the support of our farmers. The common goal is clear: a European Union that puts people at the centre.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, it is currently estimated that there are between 6 000 and 8 000 rare diseases affecting some 30 million European citizens. Behind each case lies a human story. Adults and children are desperately seeking diagnosis and waiting for treatment. For smaller EU countries, such as Cyprus, the problem is even bigger. Immediate action is needed at European level. Commissioner, patients in small countries are entitled to the same level of treatment as in larger countries that have more cases and know-how. The establishment and strengthening of national rare disease registries within the European Reference Networks is essential for the effective recording, monitoring and management of rare diseases at national and European level. We must harness our collective power to promote prevention, early diagnosis, equitable access to high-quality healthcare, innovative treatments and social services. Together we can change reality.

Madam President, honourable Members, the recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu is yet another example of Turkey's ever-increasing violation of human rights and democracy. These are practices incompatible with European values and the rule of law. These phenomena are familiar to Cypriot Hellenism, which continues to experience the occupation of the northern part of Cyprus by the Turkish invader. The accession negotiations are effectively frozen. However, Turkey's alignment with European values takes place through a rigorous and active accession path. A path that must have clear conditions, commitments and consequences for the candidate country. The European Union cannot act as an observer. It must regain its strategic influence and exert effective pressure on Turkey to comply with international law. Starting from my home country, a full member of the European family.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, culture is a cornerstone of European states and peoples. It not only accompanies but shapes the development and evolution of our societies. Cyprus, as a cradle of culture in the heart of the Mediterranean, has been instrumental in shaping modern European identity. This historic legacy places on us the responsibility to protect and enhance our cultural heritage, respecting our values and history. I would like to draw your attention to the need for practical European support for Cyprus in the face of provocative actions by Turkey, which continues its illegal behaviour by desecrating churches and monuments of cultural heritage of the Greeks of Cyprus in the occupied territories. The European Culture Compass must be a tool to meaningfully support and protect culture and its people – artists, creators and communities – so that we can continue to inspire and unite the Europe of tomorrow.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, I am really pleased with the speeches I have heard from almost all my colleagues. The legislative proposal on critical medicines is a major step towards strengthening the European Union’s strategic autonomy in the health sector. I underline the need for joint procurement of medicines, medical supplies and devices. Through it we ensure timely and affordable access to essential medicines for all Member States. Especially for smaller Member States, such as my home country Cyprus, the joint procurement of medicines can make a huge difference in the availability and cost of medicines for the patient. At the same time, we must ensure that the safety of medicines follows the strict criteria we set for the health and well-being of our citizens. European Union initiatives have already demonstrated that joint actions allow for faster and more effective responses to health crises and challenges. Thank you very much.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, Turkey is violating the basic principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. As Parliament's chief negotiator, I said that the dictatorial persecution of members of the Kurdish minority proves that the country is moving away from every European authority and value. The silencing and repression of political opponents constitute inhuman and degrading treatment. Turkey illegally occupies half of my homeland, has been convicted and has never complied with the rulings of European courts. Europe cannot tolerate Turkey's provocative stance. We will not negotiate our democracy with Erdoğan's authoritarian rules. The principles of the European Union are not negotiable. Democracy is the cornerstone of our Union and the countries that want to be members must respect them.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to remind you that, due to the Turkish invasion and occupation of my country, Cyprus, the families of the missing are still waiting for news about their loved ones. The occupation army of Erdoğan has for fifty years refused to cooperate and give evidence of the fate of these souls. We are asking for the help and support of the European Union to heal this open wound that is tarnishing the whole of Europe.

Madam President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, cryptocurrencies are transforming the financial landscape and their future in Europe may be promising. The European Union has adopted a regulation that will bring greater transparency, investor protection, stability and integration of the digital medium into the economic system of the European Union. The absence of clear rules at global level has led to scandals that have shaken investor confidence, highlighting the need for a more specific framework. Also, in Cyprus banks are very cautious about opening accounts for cryptocurrency companies. With the right regulation we can encourage banks to become more supportive and allow the sector to flourish. We are entering a new era for the digital asset, after the new US government announces that it will adopt a friendly attitude and framework for the operation of cryptocurrencies. We can't delay. We need to be more active and ready to seize this opportunity for innovation. The industry needs fair and transparent global rules. The European Union is well equipped to lead innovation in the field of cryptocurrencies. It's time to prove it.

Mr President, I stand before you today as a Greek Cypriot Member of the European Parliament and a survivor of war. Fifty years ago, in the Turkish invasion, I was a forty-day-old displaced infant. Today, while I can move freely across the 27 Member States of the European Union, I cannot live in my home in Famagusta. The issue of our missing persons is still an open wound. The international community must condemn any attempt to legitimise the illegal secessionist entity, as decided by the United Nations Security Council. The Republic of Cyprus is sovereign. The Cyprus problem is also a European problem. We want and demand the full support of the European Union. Why is the violation of international law in Ukraine causing a reaction, while Cyprus is silent? Why have our displaced people not received compensation from European funds?

Madam President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, the need for targeted regulation of medical devices is more pressing than ever. As a former Minister of Health during the pandemic, I am well aware of the challenges and difficulties faced by our patients, who deserve safe and quality care and care. At the same time, European industry needs a framework that allows it to be competitive and pioneering, reducing its dependence on non-European products. There is an urgent need for an updated regulation that puts the patient at the centre, that has high safety and quality standards, since patients' health cannot be negotiated. The new regulation must provide flexible arrangements to facilitate the development of medical devices, especially when they cover specialised cases such as paediatrics and rare diseases. We also need the immediate introduction of a fast-track approval procedure for innovative products, since where patients' lives are at stake, we need to be able to provide the right solutions quickly. The Draghi report highlighted the need to strengthen competitiveness and the domestic production of innovative products. We need to ensure that Europe provides high-quality medical devices that are developed and produced in our Member States. This effort must be responsible and continuous, and our decisions to enhance the quality of care for our patients and the efficiency of our industry.