Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos expressed optimism Tuesday that the European Union will open accession chapters with Ukraine in June, speaking after a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
Kombos also highlighted the need for continued support for Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and reaffirmed Cyprus’ backing for EU sanctions on violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank, approved by the 27 ministers.
He said Cyprus, holding the EU presidency, has helped facilitate progress on Ukraine’s accession process. He added that an event later Tuesday in Brussels would focus on Ukrainian children who have been forcibly removed from their homes.
On the Middle East, Kombos said Cyprus shared its assessment of the situation, stressing the need for the EU to evaluate the impact on energy supplies, inflation and food security.
Regarding Lebanon, he said sustained support is essential as the country remains in a critical phase.