Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides wrapped up meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah on Sunday, May 4, emphasising Cyprus’ role as a reliable regional partner and reaffirming support for peace and cooperation in the Middle East.
In Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the strong ties between Cyprus and Israel, noting their “common values and common interests” as democracies in the region.
Netanyahu highlighted the importance of trilateral cooperation with Greece and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, expressing hope for a future tri-lateral summit in Israel.
Discussions focused on cooperation in politics, diplomacy, the economy, and security.
Comprehensive exchange with @netanyahu on issues of strategic interest and on the importance of fostering regional stability. We discussed the situation in Gaza, including the humanitarian aspects, as well as the way forward on our trilateral platform, and bilateral relations pic.twitter.com/RSEQa629c2
— NikosChristodoulides (@Christodulides) May 4, 2025
Referring to a recent firefighting mission, Christodoulides said, “Cyprus has once again proven that it is a reliable and predictable neighbour,” adding that deeper collaboration is needed in defence, intelligence, trade, and tourism.
He also expressed solidarity with the families of Israeli hostages, calling for their immediate release.
Later when Christodoulides was in Ramallah, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas thanked Cyprus for its solidarity and updated the Cypriot leader on the situation in Gaza. Abbas called for a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from the territory.
Christodoulides reiterated Cyprus’ support for a two-state solution and briefed Abbas on efforts to send humanitarian aid to Gaza via Cyprus. He also pledged to relay Palestine’s views to European leaders and noted the role Cyprus could play during its 2026 EU Council Presidency.
Source: Cyprus Mail.
