Cyprus supports European Union sanctions against violent settlers in the West Bank and extremist actors, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said on Monday after a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
In remarks following the Foreign Affairs Council, Kombos said Cyprus favoured “restrictive measures” targeting targeting violent settlers and political figures who incite unacceptable behaviour. He also underlined the need to intensify efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The minister stressed the importance of Egypt as a strategic partner for the EU, following an EU-Egypt Association Council meeting held the same day. Egypt is “a pillar of security in the Eastern Mediterranean and a key actor in relation to cotnrolling illegal migration, as well as countering radicalism and terrorism,” he said.
Kombos urged the bloc to pursue a “more ambitious” approach towards Cairo, including a broader strategic agreement and fairer allocation of funding.
EU foreign ministers also discussed Russia’s war in Ukraine, developments in the Middle East and relations with China, according to the foreign ministry.
On Ukraine, Kombos welcomed a new EU sanctions package against Russia and said Cyprus, which holds the EU Council Presidency, stands ready to advance further measures. He also called for stronger efforts to counter sanctions circumvention, including activities linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”.
He described the opening of negotiations on Ukraine’s first EU accession cluster as a “historic” step while describing the opening of Moldova’s first negotiating cluster as a milestone.
On the Middle East, Kombos welcomed a US-Iran memorandum of understanding and said Cyprus was assessing its wider regional implications. He stressed the importance of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and respect for international law.
Kombos welcomed a new EU support package for Lebanon and underlined the need to maintain a ceasefire and continue EU assistance to the country.
On relations with China, he reiterated Cyprus’ support for a pragmatic approach based on reciprocity and dialogue, while reaffirming its backing for the “One China” policy.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Kombos held talks with Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, expressing support for closer EU-Armenia ties and stability in the South Caucasus.
Egypt is a strategic partner of the European Union, and a more ambitious approach is needed in our cooperation.
— Constantinos Kombos (@ckombos) June 15, 2026
Cyprus remains ready to support concrete EU action.
My statement at the conclusion of today’s EU-Egypt Association Council and Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg.… pic.twitter.com/CozlQd2Ikd
