British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides held their first official meeting on Monday in London.
During their 40-minute meeting, Christodoulides expressed that Cyprus and the UK are “on the same page” regarding the Cyprus issue. The president described his visit as “important and timely”, occurring on the eve of a dinner in New York with the UN Secretary-General and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar.
“I am glad to have heard (by PM Starmer) that there can be no settlement of the Cyprus issue outside the framework defined by the resolution of the UN Security Council”, Christodoulides stated outside 10 Downing Street.
The leaders also addressed the situation in the Middle East, with Christodoulides acknowledging the UK’s prompt support for Cyprus’ efforts to establish a humanitarian corridor into Gaza. Starmer emphasised the importance of de-escalation in the region and the need for a “credible, political solution as a way forward”.
Christodoulides highlighted the UK’s “defining importance” in resolving the Cyprus issue, given its role as a guarantor power, permanent UN Security Council member, and penholder for Cyprus-related UN resolutions. He expressed hope for more active UK engagement if progress is achieved in negotiations.
The talks also focused on enhancing bilateral relations, with both leaders agreeing to “deepen ties at all levels to drive prosperity and tackle shared challenges”. They identified defence, trade, migration, and renewable energy as key areas for increased collaboration.
“The Prime Minister began by reflecting on the strong links between the two countries, adding that the Cypriot community was a vibrant and important part of British culture,” stated the press release from the Prime Minister’s Office.
President Christodoulides extended an invitation to Sir Keir Starmer to visit Cyprus, noting that the last official visit by a UK Prime Minister took place in 1993.
As the Cypriot delegation departed for New York, Christodoulides expressed determination to achieve a positive outcome, emphasising that “the status quo cannot be a solution” and that substantive talks must resume to resolve the Cyprus issue.
Read more:
