MEP calls on Serbian president to block music festival in occupied Kyrenia

Cypriot Member of the European Parliament Loukas Fourlas has formally requested the intervention of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to cancel the 'Nexus' electronic music festival, scheduled for September 18, 2026, at Kyrenia Castle. The event is organized by the Serbian company EXIT Festival, which is planning to host Swedish DJ Eric Prydz at the venue.

Fourlas, serving as chair of the EU-Serbia Parliamentary Stabilization and Association Committee, argued that holding such a large-scale event in the occupied north of Cyprus, in cooperation with non-recognized local entities, risks legitimizing and normalizing the current status quo. The Democratic Rally (DISY) party has publicly endorsed Fourlas's position, stating that the event poses a diplomatic risk. While Nicosia is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to stop the festival, reports indicate that preparations for the event in the occupied territories are currently continuing as planned.

This marks the first time the EXIT Festival brand has scheduled an event in Cyprus. Although Kyrenia Castle has hosted musical performances in the past, authorities in the Republic of Cyprus emphasize that cultural activities should not serve as tools to undermine the country's sovereignty.