Starmer thanks Christodoulides for support on Gaza

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed gratitude to Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides for the island's robust cooperation on defense and security issues during a meeting at Downing Street on Monday. The Prime Minister emphasized the strong ties between the UK and Cyprus, noting the vibrant Cypriot community as a significant part of British culture.

The two leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East, with Starmer thanking Christodoulides for Cyprus's support in establishing a humanitarian corridor to Gaza. He underscored the importance of de-escalation in the region and finding a credible political solution.

Christodoulides described his visit to London as “significant and timely” and thanked Starmer for the invitation shortly after he took office. He highlighted the urgency of his upcoming meeting with the UN Secretary-General in New York, which he hopes will pave the way for renewed discussions aimed at resolving the longstanding Cyprus issue based on UN resolutions.

As a guarantor power and author of UN Security Council resolutions, the UK plays a crucial role in this context, Christodoulides remarked, emphasizing his reliance on British support to end 50 years of division and occupation in Cyprus.

The leaders acknowledged that trade, migration, and renewable energy present areas for deeper collaboration. Christodoulides also noted that the bilateral relationship is “valuable” and that there is a clear political will from the Cypriot side to enhance this strategic cooperation.

Starmer welcomed Christodoulides, reaffirming the historical ties between the two nations and the pride of the Cypriot community in the UK. Following their approximately 40-minute discussion, Christodoulides remarked that Cyprus and the UK are “on the same page” regarding the resolution framework for the Cyprus issue.

He expressed optimism about the new British government's willingness to strengthen ties and support the resumption of talks for a resolution, stating, “We know very well where we want to go, our goals, and we are ready to resume negotiations.”

Christodoulides also acknowledged the UN Secretary-General's initiative amidst ongoing conflicts as a sign of strong commitment to progress. He invited Starmer to visit Cyprus, marking the first invitation of its kind since 1993.

After the meeting, the President departed for the airport to travel to New York for a trilateral meeting at the UN headquarters.