Cyprus–UΚ Strategic Dialogue upgraded, Foreign Minister says, concluding London visit

Cyprus' Minister of Foreign Affairs, Constantinos Kombos, has announced an upgrade of the strategic dialogue between Cyprus and the United Kingdom, closer cooperation on Middle East affairs, and progress on outstanding issues concerning the British Sovereign Base Areas following the conclusion of his official visit to London.

During his visit, Kombos met with the UK's Foreign Secretary and the Minister of State for Europe, Stephen Doughty. Bilateral relations, regional developments and the Cyprus issue were among the key items on the agenda.

According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, the two sides agreed that the next round of the Cyprus - UK Strategic Dialogue will be held at ministerial level before the end of the year, preceded by an interim review in autumn.

The two governments also agreed to establish an annual dialogue on developments in the Middle East and the wider region, aimed at strengthening coordination on regional security and stability.

 

 

A significant part of the discussions focused on Schengen-related issues concerning the British Sovereign Base Areas. According to the Foreign Minister, the two sides have agreed on a framework for advancing the necessary technical and operational arrangements, with the ultimate objective of fulfilling the requirements linked to the Republic of Cyprus' full accession to the Schengen Area.

Kombos also said that the Cypriot side raised a number of issues relating to the Sovereign Base Areas, particularly the difficulties faced by citizens of the Republic of Cyprus living within those areas. He explained that the issues have been categorised according to their complexity and urgency, and that a follow-up meeting has been set for September to establish the mechanism for examining and resolving them.

New antenna system

Among the matters discussed was the planned installation of a new antenna system within the British Sovereign Base Areas. According to the Minister, Nicosia expects a prompt and positive response from the British side.

The latest developments on the Cyprus issue also featured prominently in the talks. Kombos briefed his counterparts on the progress and renewed momentum in efforts to resume negotiations, noting that the United Kingdom, as a guarantor power, reaffirmed its commitment to a settlement based on the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

“Great to meet with Cyprus Foreign Minister and members of the community over the last two days. Cyprus is a long-standing friend and partner for the UK and our relationship continues to grow from strength to strength,” Stephen Doughty, the UK's Minister of State for Europe, wrote on X.

 

 

 

 

(Source: CNA)