Cooperation between Cyprus, Israel, and Greece is poised for significant growth, as President Nikos Christodoulides emphasised during his recent visit to Israel for the Cyprus-Greece-Israel summit. Meeting with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Christodoulides articulated a strong commitment to collaboration in areas such as energy and defence.
Strengthening Trilateral Ties
In his remarks, Christodoulides stated, “Our countries are three predictable and reliable countries in a region of great geopolitical importance and despite the deep geopolitical challenges and pressures in the field of security, our cooperation has not wavered.” He underscored the potential for enhanced cooperation, declaring there were “no limits to the prospects of cooperation” between the three nations, particularly in defence, security, economy, and energy.
Shared Goals and Regional Stability
Netanyahu echoed these sentiments in a post on X, expressing his determination to deepen ties among the three nations. He stated, “We will continue to work together, consistently and with determination, to strengthen security, promote economic development, and deepen the ties between our countries and our peoples.”
A joint statement issued after their meeting reiterated the leaders’ commitment to strengthening trilateral cooperation in security and resilience, highlighting that the region is at a “historical turning point.” The statement conveyed a shared vision of progress rooted in their historical connections and common interests.
Joint Vision for the Future
The leaders noted that their vision aims to usher in an era of stability, prosperity, and cooperation that extends from India through the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean to Europe. They emphasised the importance of coordinated action to address both existing and emerging challenges.
In the context of humanitarian efforts, they acknowledged the contributions of Cyprus and Greece, including the Amalthea plan, and stressed the need to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches civilians safely. The leaders affirmed Israel’s right to self-defence while rejecting unfounded allegations against the country.
Energy Cooperation and Future Projects
Addressing energy concerns, the three discussed their commitment to joint projects, notably in natural gas development and electricity interconnections, such as the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI). They viewed Cyprus’ upcoming EU Council Presidency as an opportunity to enhance cooperation between the EU and Israel.
The leaders reiterated their commitment to expanding the Abraham Accords, an agreement aimed at normalising relations between Israel and several Arab states. They welcomed recent progress in dialogue between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by US mediation.
Cultural and Educational Exchange
In closing, the leaders expressed their desire to deepen cultural, educational, and academic exchanges to foster mutual understanding and friendship among their societies. This emphasis on cultural ties reflects a broader strategy to build strong relationships based on shared values.
Significant Bilateral Meetings
Earlier in his visit, Christodoulides met with President Isaac Herzog, who highlighted Cyprus’ crucial geopolitical position as a “bridge of peace” in the region. Herzog noted that the bilateral relationship between Cyprus and Israel has strengthened significantly in recent years, indicating a positive outlook for future collaboration.
Christodoulides expressed anticipation for further agreements that would bolster their strategic relationship during the summit. He referenced the notable increase in aviation traffic, with over 180 flights connecting Cyprus and Israel over the summer, as an indicator of their close ties.
Commitment to Humanitarian Issues
During the summit, Mitsotakis also met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, reiterating Greece’s support for a two-state solution. He emphasised Greece’s readiness to facilitate dialogue among all states in the region.
Abbas, in turn, thanked Mitsotakis for Greece’s support and stressed the need to implement US President Donald Trump’s peace plan and UN Security Council Resolution 2803 to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. He noted that these steps are critical to preventing further displacement and allowing Palestinian authorities to assume their responsibilities.
As Christodoulides concluded his one-day visit to Israel, he expressed a commitment to the continued collaboration between Cyprus, Greece, and Israel, which appears set to grow in the coming years. His invitation for Herzog to visit Cyprus further underscores the strengthening of ties among these nations.
