Cyprus acts as pillar of stability in the region

Cyprus is “in no way involved in any military operation,” President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated on Saturday, stressing that all actions taken by Nicosia are guided solely by “the security of the country and its citizens”.

Cyprus acts as a pillar of “stability and security” in the region, he added, pointing to foreign governments approaching Nicosia regarding the possible use of the island as a transit hub for the safe evacuation of their nationals from the region.

In a message delivered at the first session of the Cyprus-Greece Unified Cultural Doctrine, held in Thessaloniki, he referred to the ongoing regional crisis and the measures taken by Cyprus authorities.

The address was read by the Consul General of Cyprus in the city, Konstantinos Polykarpou.

Christodoulides said the country’s authorities are at an “upgraded level of readiness” and are coordinating closely with partners in the European Union as well as with third countries.

He pointed out Greece’s support, noting that it was “the first country to stand by Cyprus” following communication he had with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The dispatch of two pairs of fighter jets and two frigates to bolster Cyprus’ defence capability, he said, “is an extremely substantial action with great symbolic value.”

The President added that the decision by the Greek government also served as a precursor for other European states to support Cyprus, which, he repeated, “is not the target of any attacks.”

He also stressed that Cyprus and Greece are acting together as “agents of stability and security” at a time of geopolitical instability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

The President referred to Cyprus’ role as a safe destination, noting that the government has received approaches from several states regarding the possible use of the island as a transit hub for the safe evacuation of their nationals from the region.

Referring to the Cyprus-Greece Unified Cultural Doctrine, Christodoulides said its aim is to promote more institutionalised and effective cooperation among cultural and intellectual bodies of Hellenism worldwide using cultural diplomacy.

The first session follows the founding congress of the initiative held last November in Ayia Napa, with the participation of 25 cultural associations and intellectual organisations from Cyprus, Greece and communities of the global Greek diaspora.