It is time for Europe to adopt measures that will give hope to the disillusioned European citizen, struggling with the consequences of austerity-centric policies, that led to deeper economic recession, Cyprus President Demetris Christofias said today.
Speaking during an official dinner, in honor of the Conference of the Presidents of the European Parliament, in Nicosia, President Christofias welcomed President Martin Schulz and the leaders of political groups of the European Parliament in Cyprus, adding that their presence here underlines the importance of efficient cooperation between all European institutions.
The President of the Republic said that the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council shall work “towards a better Europe”, with one of its central components being to bring Europe closer to its citizens.
We will work “for a better Europe, for an efficient Europe, for a Europe that is more relevant to its citizens” President Christofias added.
He also spoke of a Europe with more solidarity and social cohesion, adding the importance of the European Parliament in such issues, through its direct representation of the will of the citizens of Europe.
The President said that growth is absent from the European landscape and unemployment in the member states is much too high, especially among the young, calling thus for the adoption of measures that will bring back hope.
The issues that directly concern the citizens, he said, include solidarity, social cohesion, effectiveness and growth. He also noted that the contribution of the European Parliament is vital in addressing these elements.
Moreover, he said that Cyprus has always supported the enhanced role of the European Parliament and he assured President Schulz and all those present that the Cyprus Presidency will cooperate closely throughout its six-month term with the European Parliament.
Concluding his toast, President Christofias raised his glass to the health of President Schulz and the members of the Conference of Presidents of the European Parliament, and to the prosperity and well-being of all the citizens of the EU.
