Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus wants to be “as close as possible to the core” of the European Union, Foreign Ministry spokesman Theodoros Gotsis said on Friday, as debate resumes among member states on the prospect of a “two-speed” Europe.
Cyprus position on EU integration
Gotsis said Cyprus aims to be “on the inside as much as possible” and views its future “inside Europe in every aspect.” He said Cyprus has been doubling its efforts to join the Schengen zone.
He added that the issue of a “two-speed” Europe should be discussed more widely among member states and EU institutions, and said it has “multiple aspects, not just the legal side of things.”
Renewed debate after ministerial talks
Discussions about a “two-speed” Europe came to the fore this week after German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said “now is the time for a Europe of two speeds” ahead of a video conference with counterparts from France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain.
Klingbeil said Europe must become stronger and more resilient “to survive in an increasingly unpredictable geopolitical situation.”
Plans discussed by six member states
After Wednesday’s meeting, Klingbeil said the six countries “want to be the drivers” of Europe. He said they were “providing momentum” and that “others can join,” adding that strengthening competitiveness and defence capability was the priority.
He said the group would meet again to discuss plans to strengthen the euro, further integrate military capabilities, and advance a “capital markets union.”
Background to “two-speed” Europe proposals
The “capital markets union” is an EU initiative aimed at integrating member states’ capital markets to allow investments and savings to flow more easily across the bloc.
The concept of a “two-speed” Europe has been raised multiple times in recent decades, with proponents arguing that the 27-member EU and unanimity requirements for many policies can slow decision-making.
Hungary’s role in current debate
In the current European geopolitical context, Hungary is viewed by many as a handbrake on European autonomy and integration, citing Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s closer ties to United States President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and his voting down of policies agreed by the other 26 member states.
What do you think Cyprus should prioritise as the EU debates deeper integration among some member states?