**Kombos Praises Progress Towards Closer EU Ties with San Marino**
Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos of Cyprus made a significant visit to San Marino on Wednesday, where he engaged in discussions with his Sammarinese counterpart, Luca Beccari. This meeting marks a notable milestone as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of official diplomatic relations between Cyprus and San Marino.
During the visit, Kombos expressed his enthusiasm for the progress made towards a potential association agreement between San Marino and the European Union. He stated, “It is a distinct pleasure to be in San Marino … This historic visit reinforces the strong bonds of friendship between our countries.” The discussions between the two ministers were aimed at further enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on various areas of mutual interest.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the signing of a memorandum of understanding in the fields of higher education and research. This agreement is expected to foster collaboration and exchange of knowledge between institutions in both countries, thereby strengthening their ties.
Kombos highlighted the importance of the association agreement with the EU, noting that it could create new opportunities for cooperation and integration, which would further align San Marino with the European family. The negotiations for this agreement were concluded in 2023, and it received approval from the European Commission in 2024. However, the implementation of the agreement has faced hurdles, primarily due to the Bulgarian government’s refusal to consent to it.
The complications arose after the Sammarinese authorities froze €15 million belonging to Starcom Holding, a company owned by Bulgarian businessman Assen Christov. This action followed a failed acquisition attempt of a 51-percent stake in the Banca di San Marino. In October of the previous year, a criminal case was initiated in San Marino against Christov and others, concerning allegations of “private corruption.” The freezing of the funds occurred shortly after the commencement of the investigation, which remains ongoing.
The situation presents a complex backdrop to the otherwise positive developments in Cyprus-San Marino relations. Kombos’s visit and the discussions held signal a commitment to fostering closer ties, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing investigation and the stalled association agreement with the EU.
As both countries look to the future, the hope remains that the resolution of these issues will pave the way for enhanced cooperation and integration, benefiting not only Cyprus and San Marino but also contributing to the broader objectives of the European Union.