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Cyprus has signed two strategic agreements, one with the United Arab Emirates and another with France, within just 24 hours, an unusual diplomatic double that officials say marks a shift from symbolic partnerships to deals built around concrete action.
Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos highlighted the significance of the timing after Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, noting that securing two strategic agreements in a single day is “not something that is common,” especially with countries that carefully guard their own national interests.
What sets the agreements apart, Kombos said, is that they are accompanied by detailed action plans, including structured dialogue and specific projects, rather than broad political declarations.
“These agreements do not take place in a political vacuum,” he said. “They require preparation, methodical work and continuity if they are to be implemented.”
A diplomatic bridge
The two deals, Kombos explained, reflect Cyprus’ broader diplomatic strategy to expand its international footprint and position itself as a bridge between the wider region and the European Union.
The UAE, a regional power with global influence, and France, an EU member and permanent member of the UN Security Council, are linked by what the minister described as an “imaginary diplomatic line”, one that also includes recent high-level engagement with India.
The timing is also notable, coming just days before Cyprus assumes the presidency of the Council of the European Union.
From words to action
According to Kombos, past agreements often stalled because they lacked institutional backing and clear follow-through. In contrast, the new deals lay the groundwork for targeted cooperation in areas such as defense, particularly with France, as well as connectivity and trade corridors, including initiatives like the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
The agreements also include references to the Cyprus problem and other issues of national importance, but the emphasis, he said, is on implementation through ongoing dialogue and clearly defined projects.
Trust and credibility
Kombos stressed that such agreements should not be taken for granted.
“These are not countries that bypass their own interests,” he said, adding that Cyprus’ inclusion in their strategic outlook reflects growing trust and credibility.
He linked that credibility to domestic governance and economic stability, arguing that a positive economic environment helps attract investment and sustain long-term partnerships.
“The outcome is self-evident,” he said. “A country that some consider defunct is present internationally, engaging with states of particular importance.”
While acknowledging that the effort is still in its early stages, Kombos cautioned against expecting quick results without groundwork.
“Setting high goals without proper preparation has been a mistake in the past,” he said. “This time, the foundations are being put in place first.”
