The Australian Government has appointed career diplomat Emily Pugin as the new High Commissioner to the Republic of Cyprus, as announced by Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong.
Pugin – a long-time officer with DFAT – replaces outgoing High Commissioner Fiona McKergow, who has served since 2022.
In the media release, the government highlighted the enduring ties between Australia and Cyprus – rooted in shared values, strong community bonds and mutual respect for national sovereignty.
The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), which was established in 1964, was Australia’s longest UN peacekeeping mission (53 years).
Pugin’s credentials include prior service at the Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Vienna, where she managed Australia’s relationships with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Kosovo and Slovakia.
The new High Commissioner will oversee Australia’s diplomatic representation in Cyprus, continuing efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties, support the Cypriot diaspora and uphold Australia’s commitment to Cyprus’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.
