theme of the Cyprus presidency, that of a “Better Europe”, has been based on the EU principles and values of solidarity, which is needed to respond to the Eurozone crisis, as well as effectiveness, which refers mainly to development.
for negotiation is the Multi-Annual Financial Framework 2014-20 and legislative proposals pertaining to the financial sector and the deepening of the European Single Market. The Cyprus presidency is also expected to promote green and viable development through the 7th Action Plan for the Environment, the effective exploitation of natural resources and the promotion of the Integrated Maritime Policy, as well as the issue of the Common European Asylum System and the integration of third-country nationals, legally residing in EU member-states. Moreover, the Cyprus presidency is expected to emphasize the southern dimension of the European Neighbourhood Policy, aiming at the revitalization of political and economic co-operation of the EU with Mediterranean countries and, naturally, further promote the enlargement process, including and supporting the accession negotiations of candidate countries, including
Turkey, provided it fully respects and implements its EU obligations, among which are the recognition of the Republic of Cyprus and its effective contribution to the solution of the Cyprus problem. The House of Representatives
of the Republic of Cyprus, within the parliamentary dimension of the presidency and in the framework of co-operation between national Parliaments and the European Parliament, will host several interparliamentary meetings. The selection of these inter-parliamentary conferences was made after considering Cyprus’ contribution to the 18-month programme of the Trio Presidency (Poland, Denmark, Cyprus) and Cyprus’ role as a bridge of dialogue between the EU and the countries of the broader Middle East region. These meetings include conferences of Chairpersons of justice & home affairs, social affairs, finance, agriculture, human rights, the Common Foreign and Security
Opposite page: The ceramic tile composition that decorates the entrance hall of the House of Representatives in Cyprus; Above: The façade of the House after its renovation and extension; Left: The parliamentary gavel and the Plenary Chamber and gallery in the background, as viewed from the President’s Chair.