Nicosia: The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, announced Cyprus' preparedness to extend humanitarian assistance in light of the ongoing regional crisis. The President clarified that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had assured him that British bases in Cyprus are not being utilized for military operations related to the current situation.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized the availability of Cyprus' diplomatic missions to assist Cypriot citizens. He made these remarks while attending an event hosted by the Movement of Ecologists - Citizens' Cooperation party. Responding to inquiries about potential requests related to the activation of the ESTIA national plan, the President assured that Cyprus is closely monitoring developments and maintaining communication with neighboring countries, the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
President Christodoulides highlighted that the Minister of Foreign Affairs has been in dialogue with several counterparts. He reiterated the message from the British Prime Minister regarding the non-utilization of British bases for military actions. While the ESTIA plan has been activated, no specific requests have been received, apart from airlines seeking permission for aircraft stops at Cypriot airports, which have been granted. ESTIA is a plan designed for safe evacuation of citizens during crises via Cyprus.
The President mentioned that Cypriot diplomatic missions are ready to assist citizens looking to leave affected areas when conditions permit. He acknowledged that current airport closures, due to attacks, pose challenges. Furthermore, President Christodoulides discussed the recent meeting of Cyprus' National Security Council and emphasized ongoing consultations with key ministers to closely monitor the situation, expressing hope for de-escalation and reaffirming Cyprus' commitment to humanitarian efforts.
In response to questions about potential EU-level coordination initiatives, President Christodoulides noted that such matters fall under the responsibilities of the EU's High Representative. He mentioned ongoing consultations among EU Foreign Ministers and referenced a joint statement from the President of the Commission and the President of the Council regarding the EU's stance on the crisis.