Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos paid a working visit to Israel on Sunday and met his counterpart Gideon Sa’ar. Talks centred on the state of Cyprus-Israel relations with emphasis on energy cooperation, defence ties and two-way investment. Speaking to CNA, Kombos described the relationship as strategic, covering issues of mutual interest across energy, defence and trade.
Trade and investment
On trade, Kombos pointed to the sustained growth in two-way investment and the continuous development of commercial links between the two countries.
Regional agenda and Gaza
The ministers also discussed wider regional issues, focusing on the “day after” in Gaza and the need to implement President Trump’s plan, according to Kombos. He said Cyprus’ role as a bridge for cooperation and as an operational hub on the ground was highlighted, building on the six proposals President Christodoulides tabled at the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit.
Kombos noted shared concerns about attempts by some third parties to secure roles that would not benefit the wider region.
3+1 framework and IMEC
The two sides reviewed the 3+1 scheme that brings together Cyprus, Greece and Israel with the participation of the United States. They also discussed prospects linked to the India–Middle East–Europe Corridor and assessed how recent developments affect security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, with an emphasis on protecting civilians and strengthening humanitarian efforts.
Kombos began his visit at the Civil-Military Coordination Center of U.S. Central Command in Kiryat Gat, where he was briefed on actions supporting humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza in the context of implementing President Trump’s plan.
He later held a one-to-one meeting with Sa’ar, followed by a working lunch with both delegations.
Source: CNA