Von der Leyen: “The law is stronger than force. A principle that also applies to Greenland”

Brussels – “Cooperation is stronger than confrontation, the law is stronger than force. These are principles that apply not only to our European Union, but also to Greenland.” This was stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her speech in Nicosia during the inauguration ceremony of the six-month presidency of the Union of Cyprus, sending a new warning to the United States after the message written yesterday by the heads of state and government.

Cyprus is a divided land, still partly occupied by pro-Turkish forces. “For the European Union, a comprehensive, fair and lasting solution for Cyprus remains an absolute priority,” assured the Commission President, adding that “we will do everything we can to ensure the success of the UN-led process, so that 2026 can bring new momentum towards the reunification of Cyprus.”

According to von der Leyen, Cyprus has demonstrated “leadership throughout the region” and “will play an even more important role in the years to come.” She is therefore convinced that in the first half of 2026, Cyprus will be able to play a strong role as the Union’s rotating president.

Von der Leyen also reiterated that “we will continue to promote Ukraine and Moldova’s path towards our European Union, because a free and prosperous Ukraine and a united and prosperous Moldova belong in the EU.” According to the Commission President, “only a more competitive Union can be a more independent Union. And I look forward to working with you (the Cypriot Presidency, ed) to ensure that competitiveness.”