Helsinki: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides highlighted the strong relationship between Cyprus and Finland, emphasizing their collaboration on both bilateral and multilateral levels, as well as within the European Union. During his two-day working visit to Helsinki, President Christodoulides met with Finnish President Alexander Stubb. Following their private discussions and extended talks between their respective delegations, both leaders addressed the press.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Stubb noted that their discussions covered various regional security issues, focusing on the Middle East, transatlantic partnerships, and Russia’s ongoing conflict. He emphasized the significance of Ukraine’s future for Europe’s security and stability in the Middle East. Stubb described the visit as historic, as it marks the first time a Cypriot President has visited Finland since 2004.
Stubb highlighted Cyprus’s role as one of the largest flag states globally, significantly impacting shipping and international regulation sectors. He noted the familiarity of the Cypriot flag in northern Baltic Sea ports, with over 80 ice-class ships under the Cypriot flag visiting Finnish ports last winter, demonstrating the maritime connection between the two countries.
President Christodoulides affirmed the strong bilateral ties and regular contact between the peoples of Cyprus and Finland, noting the increasing number of Finnish tourists visiting Cyprus. He also mentioned the sizable Cypriot business delegation accompanying him to Helsinki, reflecting the keen interest in enhancing business collaborations with Finland.
Christodoulides expressed gratitude for Finland’s support concerning the Cyprus issue and its voting stance in international forums. He acknowledged Finland’s significant contribution to peacekeeping efforts in Cyprus, mentioning the first UN-appointed mediator in 1960, former Finnish Prime Minister Sakari Tuomioja.
The two leaders also discussed foreign policy and defense issues, including the situation in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the upcoming Cyprus EU Presidency in the first half of 2026. President Christodoulides invited President Stubb to visit Cyprus, to which Stubb responded positively, affirming his intent to visit.