Yiannis Ioannou
The Republic of Cyprus is making its presence felt at the Ukraine Summit in Paris, convened by French President Emmanuel Macron, with President Nikos Christodoulides representing the country at the highest level on March 27-28. Despite being a small EU member state, Nicosia is actively positioning itself in the broader Euro-Atlantic discourse on the Ukraine peace process—an initiative launched by Macron in the wake of tensions between Kyiv and Washington. At the same time, discussions at the summit will touch on the evolving dynamics in U.S.-Europe relations, as well as the complex geopolitical equation involving Moscow, Kyiv, Brussels, and Washington.
Key Diplomatic Engagements with Macron
According to Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the Paris Summit brings together a wide range of world leaders, heads of government, and representatives of international organizations, all working toward a comprehensive peace agreement for Ukraine. Cyprus approaches this issue through the lens of international multilateralism, emphasizing diplomacy and dialogue.
On the sidelines of the Summit, President Christodoulides will hold a private meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, a discussion of particular importance given the close strategic relationship between Cyprus and France within the EU framework. The talks are also expected to address the latest developments in the Cyprus issue, reinforcing Nicosia’s ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Trilateral Talks with Lebanon’s President
On Friday, March 28, a trilateral meeting will take place between President Christodoulides, President Macron, and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The leaders will discuss the situation in Lebanon and broader regional stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, in line with Cyprus' continued efforts to strengthen regional dialogue.
Cyprus has been a key supporter of Lebanon within the EU, particularly through the von der Leyen-Christodoulides initiative, which secured economic assistance for Lebanon following the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Nicosia was also the first European capital visited by President Aoun after his election, reinforcing its diplomatic role in the region.
Given the situation in Syria, Cyprus is closely monitoring potential new refugee flows from Lebanon by sea, viewing preventative action as crucial for maintaining regional stability.
Strengthening Cyprus-Lebanon Relations
According to well-informed sources, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has received an official invitation from Cyprus for an official visit, which—barring any unforeseen circumstances—is expected to take place in the coming weeks. This visit is set to further strengthen bilateral ties and could pave the way for resolving pending issues, including the ratification of the Cyprus-Lebanon maritime delimitation agreement—a key matter awaiting approval from the Lebanese Parliament.
Cyprus' high-level participation in the Paris Summit underlines its active diplomatic role in both European and regional affairs, ensuring that its voice is heard in crucial geopolitical discussions shaping the future of Ukraine, the EU, and the Eastern Mediterranean.
