Cyprus’ Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, emphasised the importance of the recent agreements signed with the United Arab Emirates and France, in statements made on Tuesday following the Cabinet meeting. According to the Cyprus News Agency, he also noted that “the conclusion of essentially two strategic agreements by the Republic of Cyprus within twenty-four hours is not something commonplace.”
He explained that each of these two agreements carries its own particular significance and weight, yet they are connected through an “implicit diplomatic line,” similar to the developments that followed the visit of the Indian Prime Minister a few months ago.
Kombos described the agreements as “a clear reflection of the Republic of Cyprus’ diplomatic approach,” recalling that the government had from the outset set as a primary goal both the expansion of Cyprus’ international footprint and the enhancement and utilisation of its credibility, as well as demonstrating the country’s ability to act as a bridge between the wider region and the European Union.
“The two agreements of the last few hours with the United Arab Emirates and France precisely reflect the implementation of this approach. One is a major regional power with global influence, the other a European Union country and a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council,” Kombos said.
He highlighted that these developments occur just days before Cyprus assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Kombos also noted that what distinguishes these agreements from past cases is that they are accompanied by action plans, which include specific activities and a structured dialogue between the two countries. “They therefore go beyond political declarations, which are indeed very important,” he added.
The Foreign Minister pointed out that while references can be found to Cyprus-related issues, which are critical for the country, there is now a concrete plan of action, a structured dialogue with specific projects to be considered with a view to implementation. “These agreements are not taking place in a political vacuum. Achieving such results requires preparation, methodical work, and consistency in making the most of implementation opportunities,” he stated.
Kombos emphasised that it should not be assumed that countries such as the UAE and France automatically enter into such agreements. “These are not countries that overlook their own interests. The fact that the Republic of Cyprus falls within their broader sphere of interest carries its own significance,” he said.
The Minister added that the practical implementation of the recent agreements would not have been possible without the institutional framework provided by the agreements themselves, which ensures certainty and security for both investors and the political level. This creates a targeted, cumulative series of actions aimed at serving the interests of all parties.
Kombos further explained that this is closely linked to domestic governance. “The Republic of Cyprus would not enjoy trust and credibility if it did not have an economy in a positive state, creating a favourable investment environment. These elements are interconnected, and we will continue to pursue maximum implementation with credibility and stability within a structured dialogue,” he said.
He underlined that Cyprus’ presence on the international stage is significant, engaging with countries that hold particular weight for different reasons. He also mentioned areas of deeper engagement, such as defence matters with France, as well as connectivity and broader trade corridors.
“For instance, one can refer to IMEC. There are issues connected through an implicit diplomatic line. We are still in the early stages of this effort, but it is essential to recognise that without institutional guarantees, the trust of partners, and the initiation of a political dialogue with concrete projects, one cannot reach the ultimate goal,” he stated.
Kombos expressed the view that this had often been a mistake in Cyprus’s approach. “We set very high objectives and expect them to be realised quickly, before the necessary groundwork has been completed,” he explained.
Source: CNA