The political and symbolic significance of President Nikos Christodoulides’ presence in Turkey and his meetings on the sidelines of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya have been highlighted by presidential envoy Nikos Tornaritis.
In a social media post, Tornaritis, the President’s Special Political Envoy for the Cyprus issue in countries across Asia and Africa, said the conference had brought together around 80 heads of state and government, as well as a large number of ministers.
Tornaritis accompanied Christodoulides to the conference, alongside the Foreign Minister. He said the Republic of Cyprus had maintained a substantial and active presence at the event, with the President highlighting the country’s role and contribution to addressing major international challenges.
Political significance of Cyprus’ presence in Turkey
Tornaritis placed particular emphasis on Christodoulides’ presence on Turkish soil, noting that Turkey is the only country that does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus.
He said the President’s attendance therefore carried particular political and symbolic weight, especially in light of developments surrounding the Cyprus issue.
He also highlighted Christodoulides’ meetings with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other leaders, describing them as significant at a time when international engagement on the Cyprus issue is gaining importance.
Meetings focused on the Cyprus issue
Tornaritis said he had used his participation in the conference to hold a series of meetings with state delegations, ministers and heads of government.
The discussions involved an exchange of views on matters of mutual interest, with the Cyprus issue at the centre of the contacts.
He added that Cyprus’ participation in major international events should not be seen solely as an opportunity to represent the country. It also provides a platform to strengthen its political presence and international recognition.
According to Tornaritis, such meetings help promote the Republic of Cyprus’ positions through the development of diplomatic contacts and greater international engagement.
He concluded by stressing that a country’s influence on the international stage is not determined solely by its size.
“The size of a country does not determine the scale of the role it can play on the international stage,” he said.
Also read: Cyprus monitors Greek moves on Great Sea Interconnector
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
