Riga: President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus has called for a more active role of the European Union in the Middle East during a historic visit to Latvia, marking the first official visit by a Cypriot President to the Baltic nation. President Christodoulides emphasized Cyprus’s position as a representative of the EU in the Middle East and highlighted the island’s commitment to supporting international efforts for a ceasefire in the region.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides made these remarks while addressing the press in Riga. During his visit, he met with the Latvian President, Edgars Rinkevics, who applauded Cyprus for its pivotal role as an evacuation route for third-country nationals fleeing conflict areas. The meeting took place at Riga Castle, where both leaders were honored with a military guard and national anthems.
The discussions between the two presidents included the upcoming Cyprus EU Presidency and its potential impact on the Multi-Annual Financial Framework of the EU. President Rinkevics expressed strong support for Cyprus’s accession to the Schengen area, noting the benefits it would bring to tourism and the economy. He also highlighted the importance of EU cohesion policy, agricultural policy, and transport connections.
The Latvian President further acknowledged Cyprus’s supportive stance on Ukraine and discussed the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran and Israel. He reiterated Latvia’s alignment with the EU’s common position on these issues.
President Christodoulides outlined Cyprus’s efforts to resume negotiations for a comprehensive settlement in line with UN and EU principles, while also expressing appreciation for Latvia’s support in the UN Security Council for 2026-27, particularly regarding Cyprus’s reunification.
The Cypriot President emphasized the potential for enhanced bilateral cooperation with Latvia in sectors such as tourism, defense, innovation, and energy. He also noted the establishment of a business association as a step towards closer ties between the two nations.
Addressing questions on the Middle East, President Christodoulides highlighted Cyprus’s role as a positive force in the region, advocating for a ceasefire and underlining the need for the EU to take a leading role in the Middle East, which he described as the EU’s neighborhood.
The visit concluded with a working lunch with Latvia’s Prime Minister, Evika Silina, and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Freedom Monument, reflecting the strengthening ties between Cyprus and Latvia.