The full accession of Cyprus to the Schengen area is a “national goal,” without any concessions to the EU acquis or recognition of the Green Line as an external EU border, Greek Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos told on Friday the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs.
The discussion was held in the context of examining a new legislation for a National Visa Information System (VIS), which would align Cyprus with Schengen rules and be connected to the central EU VIS once a relevant decision is adopted by the EU Council.
Kombos noted that joining Schengen is “an obligation arising from our EU membership” but acknowledged significant technical challenges. He noted that political developments and crises in the past delayed efforts, with a prevailing belief that the difficulties were insurmountable.
He explained that the government sees an opportunity, despite the realities in the island. He described the project as massive and requiring close coordination between multiple ministries. He added that since 2019, Cyprus has been evaluated in six areas, leading to proposals for compliance.
A recent evaluation by the European Commission in February and March recorded “significant progress,” he said. He explained that the aim is to receive a positive recommendation so that the political phase can follow, which requires unanimous approval by all EU member states.
Kombos stressed that Cyprus does not seek any special treatment or derogations from the European acquis and described the European Commission as its main partner. He added that they have met with the responsible Commissioner at least three times and are in constant contact.
On the Green Line, he made clear that Cyprus will “never accept” it as an external border. According to the EU law, he said, the Green Line is not considered an external border. He cited Protocol 10 of the Accession Treaty, which suspends the acquis in the North of Cyprus and the Green Line Regulation, which sets clear obligations for effective checks.
Cyprus remains accountable for controlling illegal migration and other issues, Kombos explained, and these checks will continue after Schengen accession.
Regarding human rights, he stated that Cyprus applies the requirements set out by the EU and that there are no higher standards than those already imposed.
Kombos highlighted the benefits for Cypriot citizens, including Turkish Cypriots, in terms of travel, as well as positive effects on the economy. He rejected the idea of “commercializing” Schengen accession, pointing out the national effort to protect Cyprus’s reputation.
Addressing political challenges, he acknowledged difficulties when the decision reaches EU member states. He admitted Cyprus “is paying the price” for not prioritizing Schengen membership in the past.
A targeted round of contacts with key member states has already started, he said, noting that this is a critical year as it marks the 40th anniversary of the Schengen area, Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency in 2026, and an assessment of the responsible EU Commissioner.
He argued that Schengen “cannot be complete” without the full participation of Cyprus, the EU’s southeastern edge, adding that accession is fair, useful, and beneficial for the EU, especially given current geopolitical tensions.
Finally, Kombos expressed hope for broad political support for this effort.
( Source: CNA)
