**Title: Christodoulides and Costa to Address Key EU Issues in Upcoming Meeting**
**Date: [Insert Date]**
President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus is set to meet with European Council President Antonio Costa on Friday, with a comprehensive agenda that includes discussions on EU finances, enlargement, migration, developments in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as the ongoing Cyprus problem.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis highlighted that a significant focus of the meeting will be the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which will shape the EU budget for the period from 2028 to 2034. Letymbiotis emphasized the importance of establishing an "ambitious and fair" budget that addresses critical issues such as security and competitiveness, while also recognizing the unique challenges faced by small island states like Cyprus. He underscored the necessity for the EU budget to provide substantial support for development and social cohesion.
During the meeting, Letymbiotis indicated that Costa would be updated on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem. This includes ongoing efforts to resume negotiations, the recent visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and the role of the EU’s new special representative for Cyprus, Raffaele Fitto.
"Our position is clear," Letymbiotis stated. "The process is conducted under the auspices of the United Nations, and the European Union can act as a supporter and catalyst, making use of its political weight and the means and incentives at its disposal."
Letymbiotis also addressed the potential for improved EU-Turkey relations, suggesting that such progress could incentivize Turkey to contribute meaningfully to the resumption of negotiations aimed at resolving the Cyprus issue. He reiterated that the Republic of Cyprus is a member state of the European Union and emphasized that any solution must ensure a functioning European state that aligns with the EU's principles and values.
The meeting is seen as a crucial opportunity for meaningful dialogue on significant issues facing Europe, as well as those particularly relevant to Cyprus. Letymbiotis concluded by expressing optimism about the discussions that will take place, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing both local and broader European challenges.
As the discussions unfold, the outcomes could have implications not only for Cyprus but also for the EU's overall approach to budgetary and geopolitical matters in the coming years.