President of Cyprus’ House of Representatives Annita Demetriou met with Australia’s new High Commissioner to Cyprus, Emily Pugin on Tuesday.
They discussed regional developments, bilateral relations, EU–Australia ties, and the priorities of Cyprus’ EU Presidency. President Demetriou emphasised that Cyprus serves as a pillar of security and stability in the region.
A statement from the House after the meeting highlighted the reaffirmation of close bilateral ties and emphasised the active role of the Cypriot diaspora in Australia which acts as a bridge between the two countries.
The meeting represented the strong connections between the peoples of both nations which have laid the foundations for a bilateral relationship built on shared principles, values, and mutual respect for the international legal order.
The leaders stressed the importance of concluding EU–Australia negotiations and signing the Free Trade Agreement during Cyprus’ EU Presidency, alongside closer cooperation on EU security and defence. They said this marks a significant deepening of EU–Australia ties, enhancing economic integration and forging a strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.
Discussing the Middle East conflict, President Demetriou highlighted Cyprus’ role in delivering humanitarian aid and evacuating foreign nationals from conflict zones, with High Commissioner Pugin recognising the island as a bridge between Europe and the Middle East.
The meeting also addressed modern democratic challenges such as online harassment, hate speech, and misinformation. Demetriou praised Australia’s pioneering legislation protecting minors from online harassment and called for similar EU-level measures. Gender issues were also discussed, including new Cypriot legislation recognising femicide as a distinct criminal offence.
Source: Politis
