Nicosia: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, has proposed to the EU Foreign Affairs Council the initiation of an institutional dialogue between the European Union and Israel to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. “Israel must immediately allow the flow of aid on a scale and without imposing restrictions. This was and remains our position,” Kombos stated in an interview with the Sunday edition of “Phileleftheros” newspaper.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kombos highlighted the ongoing humanitarian efforts, noting that 22,000 tons of aid have been sent to Gaza through the “Amalthea” project, a Cypriot initiative for a sea corridor dedicated to humanitarian relief. He emphasized that international law and its humanitarian principles are the guiding forces behind Cyprus’ actions, emphasizing the country’s swift response to the humanitarian crisis.
Kombos reiterated Nicosia’s support for the establishment of a Palestinian state and the two-state solution in international forums. He also stressed the importance of an immediate ceasefire and the unhindered delivery of aid. Additionally, he advocated for the release of hostages, the return of victims’ bodies to their families, and the removal of Hamas from Gaza’s political future.
Addressing the EU’s potential lifting of sanctions on Syria, Kombos expressed Cyprus’ commitment to supporting the Syrian people, contingent on positive developments within the Syrian leadership. This support would manifest through bilateral and EU-level engagement.
Regarding the Cyprus issue, Kombos discussed the outcomes of the visit by the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Cyprus, Mara Angela Holgun. He affirmed their agreement on achieving immediate results as part of the negotiation package announced by the UN Secretary-General. “We are positive and constructive,” Kombos stated, emphasizing the goal to advance substantive negotiations across all discussion areas raised by the UN.
He concluded by clarifying that Confidence Building Measures were envisioned as preliminary steps, but acknowledged the lack of desired progress. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of the northern third. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive due to persistent disagreements, particularly from the Turkish side.
In related developments, the UN Secretary-General announced an informal meeting on Cyprus to be held at the end of July, following a similar one in Geneva. The meeting aims to advance initiatives such as opening crossing points and establishing a Technical Committee on Youth, among others. The European Commission has also appointed Johannes Hahn as Special Envoy for Cyprus to assist in the settlement process alongside Holgun.