Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ government is prioritising the repatriation of Cypriots stuck in the Middle East as soon as there is a way to bring them home, the foreign ministry said on Sunday. Foreign Ministry spokesman Theodoros Gotsis said Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos is in telephone contact with companies and partners in the region over developments.
Diplomatic contacts and calls for de-escalation
In a post on X, Kombos said he had spoken to Vice President of the European Commission Kaya Kallas, and his Italian and Greek counterpart Antonio Tajani and Giorgos Gerapetritis.
Kombos said the main message is the need to de-escalate the situation in Iran through diplomacy and dialogue to regain regional security.
European foreign ministers to discuss situation
Kombos will later on Sunday take part in a teleconference of European foreign ministers called by Kallas to discuss the situation in the Middle East, Gotsis said.
Gotsis said the meeting will also address the issue of European citizens stuck in the region.
Airspace reopening and assistance information
“Once the airspace opens and the possibility exists, the priority for Cyprus will be its citizens,” Gotsis said.
He also referred to a circular issued by the UAE foreign ministry which said it will cover the costs for those trapped there. He called on anyone in the UAE to call +97126576283 for further information.
Registration platform for citizens
Gotsis also urged citizens in the Middle East to register on the Cyprus platform Connect2CY (https://www.connect2cy.gov.cy).
Are you currently in the Middle East and registered on Connect2CY?