Jerusalem: President Nikos Christodoulides is undertaking a significant one-day working visit to Jerusalem and Ramallah, engaging with senior political leaders of Israel and Palestine.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the visit is strategically timed as Cyprus prepares for its upcoming role as President of the Council of the European Union. The discussions will center on bilateral interests and current regional developments.
President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of the visit, highlighting Cyprus’s position as a reliable state with strong relationships across the region. He noted the Republic of Cyprus’s potential to act as a mediator in regional differences, as demonstrated in past initiatives like ‘Amaltheia’. The President also reiterated Cyprus’s commitment to fostering closer relations between the EU and the Middle East during its EU Council Presidency in 2026.
In addressing the EU Presidency, President Christodoulides mentioned ongoing preparatory work and the importance of engaging with European and regional states. He stressed the role of Cyprus as a ‘link’ between Europe and the Middle East, a role that will be actively pursued during its EU Presidency.
On the topic of Israeli-Palestinian relations, President Christodoulides indicated he has ideas to bridge gaps between the two, particularly concerning humanitarian issues. He plans to discuss these during his meetings in the region.
The visit underscores Cyprus’s readiness to promote peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean through dialogue and diplomacy. In Jerusalem, President Christodoulides will meet families of hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023. His schedule also includes discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, followed by expanded talks between delegations.
In Ramallah, the President will meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for private talks, expanded discussions, and a working dinner. He will also hold discussions with UNICEF officials based in Ramallah.
Accompanying President Christodoulides are several key officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, and the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, George Papanastasiou. The President is expected to return to Cyprus late in the evening.
Source: Cyprus News Agency