Nicosia: President Nikos Christodoulides announced that relations between Cyprus and France are set to gain renewed momentum with the anticipated visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to the island. This announcement was made during a reception hosted by the Ambassador of France in honor of Bastille Day.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized that the visit aims to solidify a ‘renewed, upgraded strategic partnership’ between the two nations, further enhancing their already strong ties. French Minister of Foreign Affairs is expected to visit Cyprus before the end of July in preparation for President Macron’s visit. Ambassador Cl©lia Chevrier Kolacko noted France’s commitment to supporting dialogue and negotiations in Cyprus, highlighting the importance of working towards a federal model based on political equality.
President Christodoulides underscored the longstanding partnership between Cyprus and France, emphasizing their mutual efforts in promoting regional stability, security in the Eastern Mediterranean, and a stronger European Union. He praised France as a steadfast ally, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and recent regional crises in the Middle East, where Cyprus played a key role in evacuation operations.
Education and defence were highlighted as central pillars of cooperation between the two countries. Cyprus supports the expansion of the French-Cypriot school and has joined Francophonie as a full member. Defence collaborations include joint efforts towards enhancing the EU’s strategic autonomy and energy security, with TOTAL’s involvement in hydrocarbon exploration in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
As Cyprus prepares to assume the Presidency of the European Council, Christodoulides expressed commitment to strengthening the EU, supporting Ukraine, and advancing defence capabilities. He emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and trade agreements in maintaining the EU’s role as a stable international actor. Addressing the Cyprus problem, he reiterated the need for Turkey’s contribution to UN-led negotiations and praised France’s unwavering support for reunification efforts.
Ambassador Kolacko echoed the President’s sentiments, affirming the strong friendship between France and Cyprus, and highlighting French investments in various sectors in Cyprus. She confirmed France’s readiness to contribute to a settlement of the Cyprus issue and commended the efforts of UN and EU envoys in facilitating dialogue between the parties.
The Cyprus issue remains unresolved since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern part of the island. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a lasting solution has yet to be achieved. Upcoming informal meetings aim to create conditions for renewed negotiations, with support from the UN and EU.