Nicosia, Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides urged restraint and diplomacy amid escalating tensions in the Middle East during a press conference at the Informal EU Heads of State summit in Nicosia on Friday. He warned that instability in the region directly affects Europe’s security and economy.
Call for restraint and dialogue
Christodoulides said, “We are experiencing in real time how quickly instability can transcend borders, threatening civilians, disrupting our economies and exposing critical infrastructure to risk.” He stressed that “restraint must prevail over escalation,” adding that diplomacy and dialogue remain the only viable path to restoring stability.
EU engagement and regional partnerships
He said the European Union is actively engaged in the region and is working closely with partners to promote stability, security and prosperity, describing this as a key priority of Cyprus’ EU Council presidency.
Solidarity with regional countries and mediation efforts
Christodoulides expressed solidarity with countries in the Gulf and Jordan and commended Egypt for its mediation efforts towards a ceasefire. “The Gulf countries have proven yet again that they are reliable partners to Europe,” he said, adding that “their security is also Europe’s security.”
Support for Lebanon and regional dialogue
The president reiterated support for Lebanon, praising the leadership of President Joseph Aoun and stressing the importance of engagement between Lebanon and Israel, as well as the need for an inclusive recovery process.
Shared risks and cooperation
He said discussions with regional partners showed a “shared understanding of risks and a shared willingness to act,” with agreement on strengthening cooperation in specific areas. He added, “It is absolutely clear that the security and stability of this region is interlinked with that of Europe,” describing the Middle East as a “vital neighbourhood” for the EU.
Mediterranean pact
Christodoulides highlighted the importance of the European Commission’s Mediterranean pact, calling it the most serious effort in two decades to reset relations with the southern neighbourhood.
What steps do you think the European Union should prioritise to support stability in the Middle East?
