Nicosia: The resolution of the Cyprus issue is critical for regional security and stability, stressed President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides at the 21st Annual Economist Cyprus Summit in Nicosia. He highlighted the growing interest from neighboring states and emphasized the solution as a key factor for EU integration.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides underscored Cyprus’s recognition as a reliable partner in a geostrategically significant region. He detailed Cyprus’s role as a hub of connectivity and cooperation among three continents and its strong Western orientation. The President pointed to Cyprus’s consistent, stable role in the region, contributing to addressing regional challenges.
He further elaborated on Cyprus’s strategic initiatives, including trilateral and multilateral cooperation with regional actors like Greece, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, and the UAE. These efforts aim to establish a regional security and cooperation organization akin to OSCE or NATO for the Middle East, promoting collaboration among regional partners.
The President cited Cyprus’s humanitarian efforts, such as operations to evacuate citizens from conflict zones and creating the Amalthea sea corridor for humanitarian aid to Gaza. These initiatives reflect Cyprus’s commitment to responsible humanitarian diplomacy, exemplified by sending over 25,000 tons of aid in cooperation with the US, UAE, UK, and EU.
President Christodoulides also mentioned a six-point plan supporting the Trump plan for Gaza and Middle Eastern peace, and strengthening ties with India. He highlighted the enhanced Cyprus-US relations, noting projects to upgrade the Andreas Papandreou air base and the recognition of Cyprus as a reliable regional partner by the US.
He emphasized that Cyprus’s EU Council Presidency in January will focus on strengthening EU strategic autonomy and international presence, alongside fostering EU-Middle East relations. He reiterated the link between regional and EU security, urging the EU to consider the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Gulf as strategic areas.
Discussing the Cyprus issue, President Christodoulides highlighted the country’s proactive diplomacy, regional cooperation, and international initiatives that have renewed global interest in the issue. He mentioned the UN’s renewed involvement, including the appointment of a Personal Envoy by the UN Secretary-General and a political figure by the EU.
Despite ongoing challenges, President Christodoulides reaffirmed his commitment to a sustainable solution within UN resolutions and the European acquis framework. He noted Cyprus’s potential to harness opportunities with a resolution, stressing the importance of continued efforts in resolving the longstanding division since 1974.
The President concluded by acknowledging the historical challenges, including past failed negotiations due to Turkish intransigence, and the recent informal meetings hosted by the UN Secretary-General aimed at advancing the solution process.