A wide range of significant issues relating to cooperation between the Republic of Cyprus and the United Kingdom were discussed today during a meeting between the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, who was on a working visit to Cyprus.
The visit by the British Prime Minister is regarded as historic, being the first visit of a UK Prime Minister to the Republic of Cyprus in 53 years, reflecting the ever-expanding relations between the two nations.
During today’s consultations between the governments of the two countries, led by President Christodoulides and Prime Minister Starmer, discussions focused on bilateral relations, including the upcoming second Strategic Dialogue between the two nations. Topics included cooperation in the fields of security and defence, education and culture, the economy, investments and trade relations, clean energy, and migration.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the current level of bilateral cooperation and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further enhancing it through coordinated, joint actions.
Regional issues and humanitarian efforts
Regional issues, particularly developments in Syria and their potential impact on the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, were discussed extensively. In this context, the humanitarian role of the Republic of Cyprus was highlighted, particularly in providing humanitarian assistance and facilitating the evacuation of civilians from conflict zones.
The Cyprus issue
One of the primary topics of discussion was the latest developments in the Cyprus problem and the efforts being made by President Christodoulides to resume negotiations aimed at resolving the issue.
President Christodoulides briefed the British Prime Minister on recent developments, including his meeting with the UN Secretary-General and the Turkish Cypriot leader in New York, and on the upcoming expanded meeting that is set to take place. In this context, the significant role of the United Kingdom as a guarantor power and as a drafter and sponsor of resolutions (penholder) within the United Nations Security Council was emphasised.
Also read: Nikos Christodoulides met with UK PM, Keir Starmer
