Athens, Greece. President Nikos Christodoulides reaffirmed close ties between Cyprus and Greece, praising bilateral cooperation and shared priorities on security, European policy and regional stability in an address to New Democracy’s congress.
Address to New Democracy congress
Speaking at the metropolitan exposition on Saturday, Christodoulides said he participated “with great pleasure and pride” and conveyed “the brotherly love and appreciation of the Cypriot people, along with our gratitude for the substantial support and practical assistance”.
He said New Democracy had made a “leading contribution to the titanic effort for national reconstruction and unity”, adding that its record over 52 years had left a “positive imprint”.
Geopolitical stance and regional role
Christodoulides referred to founding figures of modern Greek politics, citing Konstantinos Karamanlis and his phrase that “Greece belongs to the West, politically, defensively, economically and culturally”, saying it remained “timeless” in the current geopolitical environment.
He said Greece and Cyprus were acting as “pillars of progress and development” and “factors of security and stability” in the Mediterranean.
Security developments and support measures
The president referred to security developments in Cyprus, saying that after “the attack on the British base in Akrotiri”, Cyprus had been forced to strengthen its deterrent capacity.
He said he would “never, ever forget” the response of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, adding that “without hesitation” Greece had deployed air force assets and naval vessels to support Cyprus.
Christodoulides said the response also demonstrated wider international solidarity, referencing activation of the EU mutual defence clause Article 42.7.
European Union priorities
Christodoulides said Cyprus and Greece were pursuing initiatives within the EU on issues including employment, competitiveness, migration, housing and the digital and green transition.
Cyprus issue
On the Cyprus issue, he said Greece had provided “decisive assistance” in efforts toward “the end of the occupation and the reunification of our homeland”.
Which of the shared Cyprus-Greece priorities outlined by Christodoulides do you consider most urgent?