Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Commission, visited Cyprus recently. This visit was important. Cyprus has started its six-month job leading the Council of the European Union. The visit showed the EU wants a fair solution for Cyprus. It also showed Cyprus's important role in the EU's plans now.
President von der Leyen met with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. This showed the importance of the six-month presidency. Other EU officials also met with Cypriot ministers. They talked about EU priorities. Cyprus wants to improve defence and security. Its location helps with this.
President von der Leyen also saw the Green Line in Nicosia. This line divides the city and the island. It has been there for many years. She saw the area with President Christodoulides. This helped her understand the long division.
President Christodoulides spoke about the sad feeling of seeing the division. He said the streets were quiet but strong. He praised the people of Cyprus for being very strong. They have suffered a lot but kept going. This showed the human side of the Cyprus problem.
President von der Leyen said Cyprus is good at leading the EU now. Cyprus is between continents and cultures. This helps it with talking and diplomacy. The island can help guide the EU's plans. The visit ended with a press conference. It showed strong links and shared goals. This means more work together between Brussels and Nicosia. They want to find a peaceful end to the island's division.