IV Trilateral Summit between the Republic of Cyprus, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Hellenic Republic
On 27 November 2024, the leaders of Cyprus, Jordan, and Greece—President Nikos Christodoulides, King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis—gathered in Nicosia for the IV Trilateral Summit. Against the backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and ongoing regional challenges, the summit reaffirmed the three nations’ commitment to bolstering their partnership to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East.
The leaders reviewed progress since their last summit in 2021 and emphasised the importance of revitalising their trilateral cooperation in light of the evolving international context. A key achievement was the resumption of the Permanent Secretariat’s work in Nicosia, facilitating more coordinated efforts and tangible results.
Focus on the Middle East
The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza was a central focus. The leaders condemned the extensive loss of civilian life, destruction of infrastructure, and any attempts at the forced transfer of Palestinians. They called for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, the exchange of prisoners, and unhindered humanitarian assistance, supporting all diplomatic efforts toward de-escalation. Initiatives such as the Jordanian Land Corridor, the Cyprus Maritime Corridor, and the Gaza Air Bridge were acknowledged as crucial for delivering aid.
The statement underscored the importance of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in supporting Palestinian refugees and called for sustained international support for its work. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital, rejecting any attempts to annex or displace populations in the West Bank.
Addressing regional stability
On Lebanon, the leaders welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement and commended international mediation efforts. They also highlighted the critical need for maritime security in the Red Sea and Yemen, reaffirming their support for an inclusive political process under UN auspices.
Regarding Syria, the leaders reiterated their support for the country’s unity and sovereignty and urged progress toward a political solution under UN Security Council Resolution 2254. Recognising the immense strain on host countries like Jordan, they called for sustained international assistance to address the refugee crisis, support displaced persons, and facilitate dignified returns.
Regional cooperation and sustainability
The leaders highlighted energy collaboration through initiatives such as the East Mediterranean Gas Forum, which aims to enhance regional stability and sustainable development. They also agreed on a range of cooperative measures, including signed Memoranda of Understanding on water resources, education, and investment promotion.
In the face of climate challenges, the summit underscored the need for joint action to address natural disasters, rising sea levels, and desertification. A regional firefighting centre in Cyprus was proposed as part of these efforts. The leaders also committed to expanding tourism collaboration by promoting their shared cultural and religious heritage through coordinated travel packages.
Cyprus issue and EU engagement
The leaders reiterated their support for a comprehensive and viable settlement of the Cyprus problem based on UN resolutions and international law. They also called for a cessation of unilateral actions that undermine peace negotiations and recognised the important role of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus.
The EU’s support for regional stability was acknowledged, including its role in aiding Jordan during the refugee crisis. Cyprus, Greece, and Jordan committed to strengthening their partnerships with the EU and fostering greater Euro-Mediterranean cooperation.
A dynamic partnership
Since the inaugural Trilateral Summit in 2018, the collaboration between Cyprus, Jordan, and Greece has evolved into a stabilising force for the region. The leaders expressed confidence that their shared efforts will continue to yield significant benefits for their countries and the broader region.
The next Trilateral Summit will be held in Jordan, underscoring the continued commitment of these nations to regional peace and prosperity.
Also read: Cyprus-Greece-Jordan sign MoU following trilateral summit
