The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombosaddresses relationships with Andorrathe association agreement and the challenges of approaching the EU
How do you assess the current state of relations between Andorra and Cyprus?
Bilateral relations are excellent. Since 1995, there has been a constant effort to strengthen cooperation. An important instrument has been the Memorandum of Understanding signed during the visit of the Minister Imma Tor in Cyprus, April 2024. Added to this is the memorandum signed during my visit, which opens the door to cooperation in education, sport and youth.
Which areas have the most potential?
Sport is a natural field of collaboration, because Andorra and Cyprus they share the participation in them Games of the Small States of Europe. Andorra he welcomed them in an exemplary way, and initiatives like this bring societies closer and strengthen ties. As small European states, we face similar challenges and this generates understanding and solidarity.
Minister Kombos during the visit to Andorra.
Do you see opportunities in tourism and services?
yes Tourism and services are strategic pillars of our economies. As small states, with open economies, we share opportunities, but also vulnerabilities. There is room to strengthen business ties in sustainable tourism, hotel management, investments and good practices.
Is there also financial margin?
The double taxation agreement, signed onyear 2018is a relevant milestone. It creates a framework to encourage trade, facilitate cross-border investment and give businesses and investors more confidence. More must now be done to increase the results associated with this agreement.
At what point is the association agreement with the EU?
During the Cypriot presidency of Council of the EU we worked to ensure its approval. Strengthen cooperation with European partners that are not part of the unionincluding Andorrawas a priority. The issues that have been raised are not a reflection of Andorra’s conduct, but rather come from internal institutional processes of the European Union.
“Without a doubt, the European project always emerges stronger from crises”
Will Cyprus continue to support the signature?
yes Despite not having the presidency, cyprus will strongly advocate and support the early signing of the partnership agreement. I think it should be concluded as a matter of urgency.
“Cyprus will continue to defend the rapid signing of the association agreement”
What lessons can Andorra draw from the Cypriot experience?
For cyprusthe adhesion to the EU was and remains the most important achievement since independence, the 1960. It was a vital objective, linked to the desire to be part of the European family and also to our security. The negotiations, started on 1998 and culminated in 2004they promoted reforms and modernized the country.
Does European integration mean losing identity or sovereignty?
no way The experience of cyprus shows that belonging to the EU it can strengthen a country’s international standing and protect national identity and interests. The EU does not erase national identity; it allows each state to contribute its history, language and culture to one europe diverse and united.
What benefits has Cyprus gained?
The main benefit has been participating, on equal terms, in a European family based on shared values and cooperation. On an internal scale, harmonization with European legislation has contributed to modernizing thestatusinstitutions and the economy. Opportunities have also opened up through the single market and European programmes.
And what challenges does being part of the EU entail?
Membership also comes with responsibilities. One of the challenges is that all countries share the same obligations when applying European legislationbut not all have the same administrative or human resources. However, small states like cyprus they have shown that, with planning and adaptability, they can participate in the European project.
What role can small states play?
Every country, regardless of size, has an important role to play. Andorra maintains an active presence in the United Nations, the Council of Europe, the OSCE and the European Political Community. The contribution of each country is useful for the future of the continent and today there is no real security from the margins.
How important is European unity in the face of crises?
It is absolutely essential. In a complex environment, no European country can face such challenges alone Ukraine warenergy insecurity, migratory pressures or economic instability. Europe’s strength lies in unity and coordinated action.
Is the European project strengthened or weakened by the challenges?
Without a doubt, the European project always emerges stronger from crises. It has happened with the economic crisis, the pandemic, the Ukraine war and the recent conflicts in the Near East These crises have pushed the EU towards greater strategic autonomy.
What message would it send to undecided Andorrans?
My message is that a closer integration with the EU it is a safe and predictable path. Andorra and the EU they share values, commitment to international law, human rights and economic prosperity as a driving force. The agreement represents a strategic decision that can define the future and open avenues for development. In the end, however, the decision rests with the Andorrans.
