Nicosia: France’s President, Emmanuel Macron, is set to visit Cyprus before the year concludes, as highlighted in a meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and French Foreign Minister Jean-No«l Barrot, according to Victoras Papadopoulos, Director of the Press Office of the President.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Papadopoulos emphasized that Macron’s visit marks a significant occasion as it will be the French President’s first bilateral visit to the Republic of Cyprus. The visit is expected to bolster the already strong relations between the two nations across various sectors.
During the meeting, issues of mutual interest were discussed, Papadopoulos noted, including the enhancement of institutional cooperation between Cyprus and France. This cooperation aims to culminate in the signing of an upgraded Strategic Agreement, facilitating deeper collaboration between the countries. The dialogue also underscored the mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in defense, both on a bilateral level and within the broader context of the European Union.
President Christodoulides also addressed the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2026. He highlighted the Republic’s priority to bridge the EU with the Middle East and Gulf regions. The discussions further touched on regional developments and the necessity for a more active EU role in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The meeting also covered the latest developments on the Cyprus issue, following an informal meeting in New York. President Christodoulides expressed his eagerness to resume talks based on the previously agreed framework. He emphasized the significance of appointing a Special Envoy of the European Commission President for the Cyprus problem, aligning with UN efforts to resume negotiations.
French Foreign Minister Jean-No«l Barrot assured that France supports the UN Secretary-General’s efforts for resuming talks based on UN resolutions and within the agreed framework, as well as adhering to EU principles and values.
Cyprus remains divided since 1974 following Turkey’s invasion and subsequent occupation of its northern region. Numerous UN-led peace efforts have yet to achieve a resolution, hindered by Turkish intransigence. The most recent negotiations in 2017 at Crans-Montana, Switzerland, ended without success.