Nicosia: Consultations with the states of the region, the US, and the EU are continuing, while at the same time, what we are primarily interested in is to take all actions internally so that there is no danger in our country, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Saturday in relation to developments in the region.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Nicosia has responded positively to an enquiry from a number of countries as to whether it is willing and ready to help, should the need for assistance through the Estia Plan arise. President Christodoulides pointed out that the role of the Republic of Cyprus ‘is purely humanitarian.’
In his remarks to journalists before attending DEPA’s Political Conference in Nicosia, and asked about the actions the Republic of Cyprus is taking and whether there is concern about the situation in the region between Israel and Iran, President Christodoulides acknowledged the global concern. He stated that the National Security Council is in constant consultation, and the Foreign Minister has engaged in numerous telephone conversations with foreign ministers of other countries. Nicosia is also in contact with the European Union, providing assessments of the state of affairs, and has communicated with both Israel and Iran through the Foreign Minister, emphasizing that the situation cannot lead to the resolution of any disputes.
Efforts and consultations are ongoing with states in the region, the United States, and the European Union. President Christodoulides emphasized that the primary concern is to take internal actions to ensure there is no danger to Cyprus. He also noted the British reference to the British Bases in their statement, highlighting that the Bases have not been used, recalling past issues.
“The Republic of Cyprus, I want to repeat, is not involved, in any way, in this dispute. Our role is purely humanitarian and we are ready, we have activated the Estia Plan, in case the need arises for us to play our role, which is nothing but humanitarian,” President Christodoulides reiterated.
In response to queries about any official request for activating the Estia Plan, President Christodoulides stated that there have been no official requests so far, but several countries have approached Cyprus regarding their readiness in case of escalation. He affirmed Cyprus’s positive response.
President Christodoulides also mentioned his recent telephone conversation with the Greek Prime Minister and noted that specific messages have been sent through the Foreign Minister’s contacts, particularly towards Israel and Iran, to help end the difficult situation and prevent further escalation.
Asked about additional security measures, the President indicated that additional measures are being taken based on developments.