Nicosia: British Prime Minister Andy Burnham praised Cyprus for its support for London's efforts to forge increasingly closer ties with the European Union during a telephone conversation with President Nikos Christodoulides on Monday morning, according to a statement issued by Downing Street.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the British Prime Minister's Office specifically noted that Andy Burnham thanked Cyprus for its support in advancing UK-EU relations during its Presidency. He also conveyed to President Christodoulides the British government's intention to continue to get closer to the EU.

Downing Street also noted that particular reference was made to the strong historic ties between the two countries, with specific mention of their close cooperation on the Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus.

During their telephone conversation, the two leaders also discussed developments in the Middle East. According to Downing Street, the British Prime Minister stressed the need to continue working with partners towards de-escalating tensions in the region, while reaffirming the United Kingdom's support for efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Concluding its statement, Downing Street said that the two leaders look forward to meeting in person as soon as possible.