Cyprus must not fall into the trap of believing there is any “illusion of normalcy” in the Cyprus problem, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos declared at the opening of the World Conference of Cypriots in the Diaspora. Stressing that time does not bring a solution but rather alters the facts on the ground, he warned: “We will not become suicides,” firmly rejecting any notion of a two-state arrangement or acceptance of the occupation.
“Time does not bring a solution. When the experience is daily, alive, existential, it cannot be a memory, it is a responsibility, a duty for all of us,” Kombos said. He cautioned that some continue to hope that time will lead to familiarity or even acceptance.
“But acceptance of what? The ongoing occupation? A threat that is both real and existential? The demand for two states or our consent to the demise of the Republic of Cyprus? Ladies and gentlemen, we will not become suicides,” he underlined.
Kombos added that time does not lessen Cyprus’s duty, but it is unforgiving in changing realities, emphasizing the responsibility “to safeguard the Republic of Cyprus.” He reaffirmed that Nicosia remains committed to a settlement within the framework of the United Nations, stressing the obligation “to do everything possible to resolve our national issue.”
“With initiatives, with proactive moves, with absolute adherence to the framework of the UN Security Council. There is no other option, and that is the clear message to everyone. Negotiations exclusively within this framework,” he said.
Role of the Diaspora and New Initiatives
The Foreign Minister also expressed the state’s deep gratitude to the diaspora, describing it as Cyprus’s “intangible extension” that supports the country and its interests consistently, selflessly, and worldwide.
Referring to a new strategy for engaging with expatriates, Kombos explained that “the plan exists and is being implemented,” with a focus on strengthening institutions and using modern digital tools to improve communication with overseas Cypriots.
He unveiled four key initiatives developed over the past year through consultations between the Ministry’s Overseas Service and diaspora organizations, laying the groundwork for a renewed three-year cooperation strategy.
Among the initiatives:
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A new website and online platform of the Overseas Service, offering access and updates on issues of particular interest to expatriates.
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A pilot rollout of the “e-Consul” platform, designed to provide immediate access to consular information and guidance.
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A forthcoming mobile app, developed in cooperation with Greece, to deliver real-time updates on the Cyprus issue and strengthen ties between expatriates and the homeland.
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A digital identity for the Overseas Service, linking diplomatic missions with a focus on social media engagement, soft diplomacy, and rapid coordination.
Concluding, Kombos reiterated that the Republic of Cyprus counts on the support and initiatives of the diaspora, expressing the state’s deep appreciation and assuring expatriates of Nicosia’s unwavering backing.
With information from CNA
