Nicosia, Cyprus. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will visit Cyprus on Sunday as the two countries seek to strengthen bilateral relations through a new strategic cooperation framework. Cyprus said discussions have already led to work on a joint partnership document.
Visit and strategic framework
Briefing journalists at the presidential palace on Friday, government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said discussions between President Nikos Christodoulides and Meloni had already led to work on a joint partnership document designed to formalise cooperation between the two EU member states.
Letymbiotis said relations between Cyprus and Italy were “currently at the highest level,” and that the visit aimed to upgrade the relationship “to an even more structured level” through “a specific roadmap, clear pillars of cooperation and tangible deliverables”.
Planned agenda items
Talks are expected to focus on defence and security cooperation, including collaboration within the quadrilateral framework involving Cyprus, Greece, France and Italy.
Energy is also expected to feature prominently, particularly in relation to the activities of Italian energy company ENI in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Letymbiotis said Italy is currently Cyprus’ third largest trading partner.
Discussions are also expected to cover tourism, education and culture.
IMEC and regional connectivity
Particular emphasis is expected to be placed on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor initiative (IMEC), with Letymbiotis describing Cyprus as “an integral part of regional interconnections”.
He said Cyprus, due to its geography, infrastructure, regional collaborations and projects already being implemented, has an essential role in the next stages of shaping the corridor, and described Italy as “a valuable partner in this effort”.
What developments will you be watching for from the Cyprus-Italy talks during Meloni’s visit?
