cybersecurity centre — Cyprus, Israel and Greece are taking significant steps towards enhanced cooperation by announcing a maritime cybersecurity centre during their 10th trilateral summit. This initiative positions Cyprus as a crucial European logistics hub, particularly as it prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency in early January.
Cybersecurity centre: Concrete Commitments for 2026
The summit resulted in five key commitments, all aimed for implementation by 2026. These include the establishment of a Trilateral Maritime Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Cyprus, a working group on emergency preparedness, and discussions on a water management memorandum of understanding. Additionally, a health working group will focus on medical institutions and research, while a joint exercise for maritime environmental pollution response is also planned.
Three-Axis Approach to Gaza
Cyprus introduced a comprehensive three-axis approach to addressing the situation in Gaza, which encompasses humanitarian response, security, and reconstruction. Officials highlighted Cyprus’s unique advantages as a secure European node, equipped with logistics capabilities, port services, transit, storage, and specialised training. The CYCLOPS facility is expected to synergise with EU missions and international organisations.
Humanitarian Efforts Highlighted
The summit underscored ongoing humanitarian efforts, notably the Amalthea Humanitarian Corridor, which has successfully delivered 30,000 tons of humanitarian aid since its activation, according to official figures. This initiative exemplifies the tangible impacts of the trilateral cooperation on the ground.
Increased Diplomatic Engagement
Recent diplomatic activities have intensified for Cyprus within the Eastern Mediterranean and Gulf regions. This follows a series of high-profile meetings, including President Nikos Christodoulides’s discussions with Emmanuel Macron in Paris and the signing of a Cyprus-Lebanon exclusive economic zone delimitation agreement on 26 November. These engagements reflect a strategic effort to strengthen ties and enhance regional stability.
Revitalising the 3+1 Framework
Officials expressed interest in revitalising the “3+1” framework with the United States. The timing is considered favourable, particularly in light of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming meeting with the US President on 29 December, where Gaza issues are expected to dominate discussions. Increased interest from the US Congress in supporting this framework is also noted, with a focus on counterterrorism and maritime security cooperation.
Political Momentum for Infrastructure Projects
The trilateral mechanism covers a wide array of sectors, including energy, economy, defence, cybersecurity, maritime security, civil protection, and crisis management. The summit generated political momentum for significant infrastructure projects, such as the Greece-Cyprus-Israel interconnector and submarine telecommunications cables. These initiatives align with the broader goals of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Strengthening Energy Security
The Cyprus-Lebanon EEZ delimitation agreement, signed in late November, has been described as a pivotal step in bolstering regional energy security. This agreement is expected to create conditions conducive to cross-border arrangements and long-term energy planning.
International Dimensions of Cooperation
The summit also aimed to contribute to more structured discussions on EU-Israel relations and the need for a political horizon in the region. Cyprus reiterated its support for a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue, emphasising the importance of international law and the security of all parties involved.
