Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides travels to Kyiv this week for a working visit linked to the preparations for Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union. He departs on Wednesday and arrives in the Ukrainian capital on Thursday, during what the Presidency describes as a period of “significant developments” for the country.
The visit aims to reaffirm Cyprus’ political support for Ukraine while outlining key priorities for the upcoming EU Presidency. During his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President Christodoulides is expected to restate Cyprus’ full adherence to international law and its “absolute respect” for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, a stance the Presidency says is consistent with Cyprus’ own historical experience.
Discussions will also address EU-Ukraine relations, the country’s accession process and the role Cyprus intends to play during its Presidency. The issue of sanctions circumvention will feature prominently, with Nicosia set to emphasise the need for coordination, transparency and consistency across the international sanctions framework.
Upon arriving in Kyiv, President Christodoulides will lay a wreath at the Wall of Remembrance of the Fallen for Ukraine before holding bilateral talks at the Presidential Palace. Both leaders will subsequently make statements to the media and attend a working lunch.
The President’s programme includes a meeting at the Ukrainian Parliament with Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk, underscoring what officials describe as the strong institutional dimension of Cyprus–Ukraine relations. He will also visit the Special Rehabilitation Centre for children repatriated after abduction and captivity in occupied territories, highlighting the humanitarian impact of the war.
Before his departure from Kyiv, the President will tour Saint Sophia Cathedral, one of the country’s most significant cultural and religious monuments.
He is accompanied by Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna, Doros Venezis, Director of the Diplomatic Office, and other officials.
Source: CNA