A deal allowing the presence of French forces on Cyprus for humanitarian purposes is expected to be signed at ministerial level in June, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday.
Speaking after the annual memorial service for the founder and former president of EDEK, Vasos Lyssarides, held at the Church of the Holy Confessors in Nicosia, the President confirmed that discussions with France had progressed into a formal agreement phase.
Stronger cooperation with France
He said the arrangement follows the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Cyprus, adding that the agreement “will provide for the presence of French forces on Cypriot territory for humanitarian purposes”.
Christodoulides stressed that the deal forms part of strengthened cooperation with France, recalling that an upgraded strategic partnership between Cyprus and France was signed last December.
“France is the EU member state with which we have the strongest cooperation at all levels, starting with defence and security,” he said.
He added that, within the framework of the EU’s SAFE programme and €1.2bn allocated to Cyprus, the government is working to create synergies between French companies and the emerging Cypriot defence industry.
The President emphasised that such agreements are not “simply texts for a photograph or communication purposes”, but substantive arrangements that deliver results in practice. He pointed to France’s “immediate response when assistance was requested” as an example of the depth of bilateral cooperation.
EU and regional diplomacy
Commenting on the informal European Council held in Nicosia, Mr Christodoulides described it as significant that regional leaders met with EU counterparts “not only to exchange views, but to see how we can jointly upgrade our relationship”.
He said several ideas had been recorded, with the European Commission expected to act on them in the coming period. This includes the launch of discussions on a strategic partnership between the European Union and Lebanon, modelled on existing agreements with Egypt and Jordan.
“These were not just discussions. Concrete decisions were taken and implementation has already begun,” he said.
Turkey tensions
Asked about reports of Turkish discomfort over the informal EU summit in Cyprus and alleged moves concerning the island’s buffer zone, the President said he had seen international media commentary on the issue.
He reiterated that Cyprus had previously expressed readiness to invite Turkey to participate within the framework of Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency, but said Ankara had declined.
He added that, given recent reactions, Turkey may not have expected the positive response from regional states to Cyprus’ invitation.