Nicosia: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides announced plans to hold a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following a request from Iran for Nicosia to convey a message to Israel. The announcement comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with Cyprus seeking to play a mediating role.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides, speaking to journalists after a memorial service in Spilia, Nicosia district, detailed his recent communications with regional leaders and the President of the European Council. He noted that while a call with Netanyahu was planned for the previous night, it had to be postponed due to the volatile situation. Christodoulides also plans to engage with the President of Egypt and the President of the European Commission.
President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of resolving the current situation, stating that it does not lead to any constructive outcomes. He has urged the President of the European Council to address the issue at the upcoming G7 Summit in Canada, expressing dissatisfaction over the EU’s slow response. He highlighted efforts to convene an extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council meeting, underscoring the EU’s need to assert its geopolitical role.
Christodoulides also mentioned an upcoming meeting with the Prime Minister of India, marking the first visit in over 20 years, to discuss significant matters, including India’s connection to Europe through the Middle East and Cyprus. Addressing concerns about external involvement in the conflict, he clarified Cyprus’s role as a communicator rather than an influencer.
Reiterating Cyprus’s neutral position, Christodoulides noted that the British Bases in Cyprus have not been utilized in the conflict, as confirmed by British authorities. He emphasized Cyprus’s efforts to facilitate dialogue and convey messages to foster conditions for peace.
The President’s recent diplomatic engagements included conversations with King Abdullah II of Jordan, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and European Council President Antonio Costa. The Government Spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, stated that these discussions reaffirmed Cyprus’s commitment to immediate de-escalation of tensions in the region.