FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Cyprus has made “significant progress” toward joining the Schengen zone in the two years since its current government came to power, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said Wednesday.
Schengen membership, which Kombos described as “a top political priority for the Republic of Cyprus,” would bring the country into a group of 27 European nations that have eliminated border controls for travel among member states. The zone enhances ease of travel, boosts cross-border trade, and facilitates security cooperation between its participants.
The European Commission’s ‘State of Schengen’ report, released Wednesday, provided a “particularly encouraging” evaluation of Cyprus’ efforts, Kombos said. However, he acknowledged that “the challenges which remain are the thorniest,” suggesting the road ahead will require determined action and collaboration.