Nicosia: President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides pledged that Cyprus remains firmly committed to supporting Lebanon's security, stability, sovereignty and prosperity. The President made the remark, receiving the credentials of Lebanon's new ambassador, Reina Charbel, in an official ceremony at the Presidential Palace on Tuesday, underscoring the longstanding and deepening ties between the two neighbouring states.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Charbel assured she will work to further develop the excellent relations between the two countries. Receiving the credentials, President Christodoulides highlighted the historical bonds that link Cyprus and Lebanon, rooted in geographic proximity, shared history and sustained people-to-people contact. He described the bilateral relationship as 'grounded in mutual respect, genuine friendship and close cooperation,' noting its evolution into a multifaceted partnership spanning political dialogue, economic collaboration, trade, culture, education and tourism.
The President pointed to concrete advances in cooperation in recent years, singling out the Agreement on the Delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) between Cyprus and Lebanon as a milestone that demonstrates respect for international law and good-neighbourly relations. He expressed confidence that significant scope remains to expand ties in areas of mutual interest, including energy, trade, search and rescue, civil protection, tourism, education and culture.
Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus's commitment to supporting Lebanon's security, stability, sovereignty and prosperity, describing these pillars as essential not only for the Lebanese people but for stability across the wider region. He also lauded Lebanon's constructive role in fostering dialogue and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, calling for continued efforts toward de-escalation, adherence to international law and the pursuit of lasting peace. The President expressed hope that Lebanon will persist on a path of institutional strengthening, economic recovery and national reconciliation.
Presenting her credentials, Charbel assured she will do her "utmost to further develop, strengthen and enhance this cooperation on all levels, for the benefit of both our countries". She said that Lebanon cannot forget that during the devastating events which took place between 1975 and 1990, Cyprus became a safe haven to tens of thousands of fleeing civilians and that her country deeply appreciates the President's personal deep involvement in supporting Lebanon, which translates in the close relations with His Excellency President Joseph Aoun, and the signature and entry into force of the Agreement of Maritime Borders on the Delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone between the Republic of Lebanon and the Republic of Cyprus and many other areas of cooperation.
Charbel added that "as a founding member of the United Nations we share with Cyprus a profound belief in democracy, inalienable human rights and freedom of expression and worship, and will continue to support your efforts to seek a peaceful resolution of the Cyprus problem in accordance with UN resolutions". She concluded by expressing her commitment to tirelessly work to further develop the excellent relations which have defined the relations over the centuries, and her hope to work with the Cypriot Government to that end.