**Fitto ‘Here to Listen’ in First Cyprus Visit as EU Envoy**
Raffaele Fitto, the newly appointed envoy of the European Commission for Cyprus, concluded his inaugural visit to the island on Friday, emphasizing his primary goal of listening to local leaders and stakeholders. Fitto, who took on the role earlier this month, engaged in discussions with key figures from both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities during his visit.
In a statement, Fitto expressed his commitment to understanding the perspectives of the communities he met. "Today in Cyprus, I had the opportunity to meet President Nikos Christodoulides, leader of the Greek Cypriot community, and Mr. Tufan Erhurman, leader of the Turkish Cypriot community," he noted. "This is my first visit to the island in this role, and I am here, above all, to listen."
Fitto reaffirmed the European Union's dedication to supporting the United Nations-led process aimed at resolving the long-standing division of Cyprus. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with the UN and expressed his intention to return to Cyprus soon to continue engaging with various stakeholders involved in the peace process.
During his visit, Fitto also met with Cyprus's Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, who provided insights into the potential next steps for the EU in the region. Kombos acknowledged the complexities of external organizational planning within the EU framework, suggesting that patience is necessary as contacts with Turkey evolve. He expressed hope that these interactions would yield positive outcomes in the near future.
In addition to his meetings with political leaders, Fitto visited the staff of the European Union programme support office in the northern part of Cyprus. This office operates under the EU's Directorate General for Structural Reform Support (DG-Reform), which falls under Fitto's responsibilities as the Commission's executive vice president for cohesion and reforms. During this visit, he emphasized the EU's commitment to fostering connections and opportunities between the two communities.
Fitto highlighted that the EU's aid programme for the Turkish Cypriot community is a crucial part of this effort. In September of the previous year, the European Commission allocated €33.7 million to support the socioeconomic development of the Turkish Cypriot community and facilitate the reunification process of Cyprus. Since 2006, the EU has provided over €760 million in funding to the Turkish Cypriot community, aimed at enhancing trade across the Green Line and aligning Turkish Cypriot products with EU standards, particularly in sectors such as dairy and agriculture.
As Fitto concluded his visit, he reiterated the EU's role in promoting dialogue and cooperation between the two communities, with the ultimate goal of achieving a peaceful and united Cyprus. His approach of listening and engaging with local leaders reflects a commitment to understanding the complexities of the situation on the ground and working collaboratively towards a resolution.