Nicosia: France is set to bolster its strategic relationship with Cyprus, as French President Emmanuel Macron plans to visit the island nation in the coming months. The visit aims to finalize the strategic partnership between the two countries, marking a significant upgrade in their bilateral relations, according to France’s Minister Delegate for Europe, Benjamin Haddad, who spoke to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). Haddad emphasized France’s commitment to Cyprus’ regional security.
According to Cyprus News Agency, during his recent visit to Cyprus, Haddad met with President Nikos Christodoulides and his counterpart Marilena Raouna. He highlighted the existing strong cooperation between Cyprus and France on bilateral, regional, and European issues. The new strategic partnership is expected to deepen political dialogue, enhance economic and defense cooperation, and foster cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries.
The French official also addressed the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026, expressing a desire to collaborate on issues such as illegal migration, Europe’s competitiveness, and defense. He acknowledged Cyprus as a crucial partner for France, particularly in regional security matters, and noted the strategic partnership’s role in strengthening their cooperation.
Haddad mentioned the potential upgrading of the Mari naval base as a promising area for further cooperation in defense, alongside existing joint defense exercises in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The EU SAFE programme was another point of discussion, with Haddad describing it as a high priority amid geopolitical tensions, including Russian aggression. He stressed the importance of European strategic autonomy and the development of an independent defense industrial base.
He also highlighted the role of the EU in addressing the situation in Ukraine, noting the potential deployment of a European contingent to strategic areas in Ukraine as part of a ceasefire strategy. Haddad underscored the need for Europe to take ownership of its defense and security.
On the Cyprus issue, Haddad reiterated France’s support for a just solution based on international law, advocating for a bicommunal, bizonal federation under UN auspices.