Cyprus now leads the Council of the European Union. This is a big chance for the island nation. Cyprus wants to improve its image and help peace in the Eastern Mediterranean. It has invited Turkey to use this time to improve relations. Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides invited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. They will meet in April for an informal summit. The meeting aims for good talks between EU countries and neighbours.
This happens in a difficult area. Cyprus is working with Israel and Greece. They had a summit in Jerusalem. Cyprus will also meet with Greece and Egypt in Cairo. These groups want peace, stability, and business growth. The European Commission might join these talks. This would show more EU support.
Cyprus's EU presidency is very important. Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said Turkey can join. But Turkey must decide. Cyprus wants Turkey to work on its Cyprus issues. This could help Turkey join the EU more easily.
However, things are not simple. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan sees the presidency as an opportunity. But he is also frustrated. He feels the "Greek Cypriot administration" blocks Turkey. Fidan warned against deals that hurt Turkey's interests. He said these deals would not be fair. He also said the EU has not stopped the "Greek Cypriot administration's arrogance". This could harm EU security.
President Christodoulides wants to talk directly with President Erdogan. He wants to solve the Cyprus issue together. Cyprus's Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Rauna, agrees. She said the presidency is a good chance for Cyprus. It can help the EU be stronger. Cyprus will lead important talks on EU money and defence. It will also promote cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean. An upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers will be a first test.