Nicosia: Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos held a meeting on Friday in Nicosia with the British Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, where they discussed bilateral ties, the Cyprus issue, the forthcoming Cyprus EU Presidency, and the situation in the Middle East, along with Cyprus’ humanitarian role in the region.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kombos shared on his ‘X’ account that during their discussions, both ministers reaffirmed their strategic vision for enhancing bilateral relations, particularly within the framework of the Cyprus-UK Strategic Dialogue. The Foreign Minister emphasized Cyprus’ commitment to fostering regional stability in the Middle East through diplomatic engagements and humanitarian efforts, noting that Cyprus remains a reliable hub for safe evacuations.
Kombos highlighted the recent evacuation of over 3000 individuals, including British citizens, through Cyprus under the National Evacuation Assistance Plan ‘ESTIA’. He also briefed Lammy on the recent developments concerning the Cyprus Issue, ahead of the upcoming informal meeting in New York.
Further, Kombos discussed preparations and priorities for Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU, set to begin in January 2026, and exchanged views on EU-UK relations. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion, and efforts for a resolution have been ongoing, with the latest round of negotiations ending inconclusively in 2017.
The UN Secretary-General announced an informal meeting on Cyprus will take place in July in New York. This meeting follows a similar gathering in Geneva and aims to explore initiatives involving crossing points and the creation of a Technical Committee on Youth.
Additionally, UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres appointed Mara Angela Holgun Cu©llar as his Personal Envoy on Cyprus to engage with the parties involved. The European Commission has designated Johannes Hahn as Special Envoy for Cyprus to assist in the settlement process, working closely with Holgun.