Christodoulides proposes maritime lifeline to Gaza in bid for Middle East peace

Cypriot President Christodoulides engaged in discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, focusing on a proposal for establishing a "maritime humanitarian corridor" from Cyprus to Gaza. This initiative seeks to ensure the unobstructed delivery of vital humanitarian aid, with the possibility of sending aid by sea from Limassol to Gaza. President Christodoulides emphasized the imperative for more active European Union involvement in addressing the Middle East crisis and the significance of de-escalation through diplomatic means, rejecting terrorism and civilian casualties. He called for the resumption of the political peace process and offered Cyprus's readiness to facilitate evacuations and create a maritime humanitarian corridor.

Additionally, the talks encompassed the pressing issue of migration, particularly if the Middle East crisis extends to Lebanon. Migration was addressed both independently and within the framework of the Multiannual Financial Framework review, highlighting the importance of EU support for front-line countries, including Cyprus. The proposal for the humanitarian sea corridor underscores the need for the EU to play a prominent humanitarian role in addressing the ongoing Middle East crisis, reinforcing diplomatic solutions and assisting countries like Egypt and Jordan in de-escalation efforts.

[Information from CNA]