Relations between Greece and Cyprus are “at the best point they have ever been,” said Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides in his speech to the Greek Parliament, during a period in which Nicosia holds the presidency of the Council of the EU.

He made special reference to the frigates and fighter jets sent by Athens to Cyprus following the drone attack on the British base in Akrotiri, stressing that “thanks to the response of the Greek government, it was the precursor to an unprecedented wave of solidarity in practice,” which was later followed by other European countries.

Thanking “his friend Kyriakos,” the Cypriot president said that beyond strengthening security, Greece’s response represented a “moral restoration of a historical pending issue” associated with the phrase “Cyprus is far away.” He also used the incident to argue in favour of EU strategic autonomy, calling it “a sine qua non” for a Europe that is “more autonomous, independent and strong.”

Christodoulides referred to bilateral relations, saying the strategic cooperation mechanism established in 2023 is a “permanent governance mechanism with continuity, accountability, and results,” covering a wide thematic range beyond national issues, including education and health. He described Greece as “the most consistent and selfless ally” and acknowledged its “strong support” for Cyprus’s EU accession in 2004, which he called “the most important diplomatic achievement since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.”

On the Cyprus issue

On the Cyprus issue, he used strong language against Turkey, describing the 1974 invasion as “one of the greatest post-war crimes” and a “continuing crime” lasting 52 years. He drew a direct comparison, saying: “What was done in Ukraine, was done in Cyprus half a century ago,” adding that Ankara continues to occupy “37% of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus.”

He also paid tribute to Greek officers, soldiers, and civilians who “stood firm and sacrificed what was most precious” to prevent Turkey’s partition plans.

Christodoulides categorically rejected any prospect of partition, stating: “We will never accept discussing the legitimisation of illegality, or the consolidation of territorial dismemberment.” He referred to a “promising initiative” for the resumption of talks and said Cyprus is working to create conditions for negotiations toward a comprehensive settlement, arguing that EU law can act as a catalyst and safeguard for a viable solution.

“Reunification is the vow that unites Cyprus and Greece”

“The reunification of Cyprus is the vow that unites Cyprus and Greece,” he said, paying tribute to those who died during the 1974 Turkish invasion.

In closing, the Cypriot president delivered a message of unity and optimism, saying: “The liberation and reunification of Cyprus is the vow that unites all of us, in Cyprus and Greece. We stand firmly on their legacy, we look to the future with optimism,” and ended with verses by poet Giorgos Seferis: “A little longer and we shall see the almond trees blossom…”