Newsroom
Yesterday, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, President Nikos Christodoulides welcomed a diverse group of new Ambassadors and High Commissioners to Cyprus in a ceremony that also highlighted the country's foreign policy priorities. With representatives from countries including Ghana, Guatemala, South Africa, Bangladesh, and the Republic of Korea, the event symbolized both new beginnings and Cyprus' ongoing commitment to strengthening international ties.
In his speech, President Christodoulides emphasized that Cyprus' path forward is clear: a peaceful, reunified island, based on the framework laid out by the United Nations. He was firm in his message, stating that there will "never be any alternative" to a settlement that sees Cyprus united once again, ending over 50 years of division.
Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Mr Rachid Belbaki.
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, Mr Puttaporn Ewtoksan.
“Finding a viable and lasting solution to the Cyprus problem remains the utmost priority of my Presidency,” Christodoulides declared. "My goal is no other than ending the Turkish military occupation and reunifying my country and its people." He reiterated his commitment to working towards a comprehensive settlement, in line with UN Security Council Resolutions.
The new Ambassadors and High Commissioners, who hail from nations across the globe, presented their credentials to the President, signaling the start of their official missions in Cyprus. Christodoulides took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the continued support from their respective countries, particularly in the realm of Cyprus' sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Ambassador of the Republic of Chile, Mr Juan Manuel Pino Vásquez.
Ambassador of the Republic of San Marino, Ms Bojana Gruska.
Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Mr Abat Fay
“On behalf of the people of Cyprus, we thank you for your principled positions regarding our independence," the President said. He also expressed his hope that their work would strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, fostering cooperation for mutual benefit.
Ambassador of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, Mr Augusto Arthur Antonio da Silva.
High Commissioner of the Republic of Malawi, Mrs Caroline Cyrenia Sakina Bwanali Mussa.
Cyprus, strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, holds a unique position in the global arena. Christodoulides highlighted the country's remarkable geopolitical footprint, underscoring its role as a reliable partner in promoting regional peace and stability. He pointed to Cyprus’ active participation in key initiatives aimed at securing peace in the Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, and beyond, noting the country's growing role in international diplomatic engagement.
High Commissioner of the Republic of Ghana, Ms Lydia Ofosua Amartey.
Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala, Ms Ava Atzum Arévalo Tribouiller de Morosco.
With Cyprus' recent membership to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 period, the President emphasized the importance of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in the nation's foreign policy. He committed to continuing Cyprus' path of constructive collaboration with global partners, based on mutual trust and respect.
Air Vice Marshal Javed Tanveer Khan, High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.
Mr Juseong Lim, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea,
While the ceremony was a celebration of Cyprus’ diplomatic relationships, Christodoulides did not shy away from addressing the ongoing challenges posed by the unresolved Cyprus issue. He pointed out that Turkey’s insistence on a "two-state" solution, along with its increased militarization of the occupied areas, continues to hinder progress. Yet, the President remained resolute in his belief that a peaceful, reunified Cyprus is not just a possibility, but a necessity.
High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa, Dr Lindiwe Gail Msengana – Ndlela.
As Cyprus prepares for a year of significant milestones, including the 20th anniversary of its EU accession, President Christodoulides reinforced the country’s role as a beacon of peace and stability in a turbulent region. The new ambassadors, now entrusted with the task of representing their nations in Cyprus, will undoubtedly play a key role in furthering these shared goals, in the hopes that one day, a united Cyprus will be a reality.
Mr Fredrick Lusambili Matwan’ga, High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya
Mr Arturo Javier Arciniega Calderón, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru
