ATHENS — Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides called on the European Council to show that "the EU's fundamental principle of solidarity among states is not empty of content or limited to public proclamations, and that it can act as a deterrent of finalities," at the meeting of EU Mediterranean state (EU Med7) ministers, held in Athens on Friday.

"We are certain that the Eastern Mediterranean, an area of particular geostrategic importance to the EU, can be an area of stability, peace and prosperity," he underlined. "We are working in this direction," he continued, "expanding the network of cooperation with like-minded states in the region, always without exclusions, on the basis of a positive approach, in respect for International Law and the principles of good neighborly relations."

However, he noted, "unfortunately we are witnessing an aggressive rhetoric by Turkey against an EU Mediterranean member state, with threats of resumption of illegal actions within the Cyprus EEZ and the creation of new, unacceptable finalities within the enclosed area of Famagusta."

The European Council meeting of EU leaders will convene in Brussels on June 14-25 to discuss Covid-19, economic recovery, migration and external relations, including relations with Turkey and Russia.