In a collaborative effort between the Republic of Cyprus and the United Kingdom, the first shipment of humanitarian aid weighing nearly 90 tons has been dispatched.
The aid, transported via a suitable maritime vessel provided by the United Kingdom, is versatile in its delivery options, adaptable to on-ground conditions.
The shipment includes 10 tons of medical supplies contributed by the Republic of Cyprus.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement, specified that Cyprus, as a regional state, fulfilling its ethical obligation to assist in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, has worked towards creating an additional delivery option for the international community, considering varying implementation capabilities depending on the circumstances.
The initiative for a one-way maritime corridor for delivering humanitarian aid to the civilian population in Gaza had predefined parameters from the outset.
Firstly, the establishment of an operational mechanism for the secure reception, storage, and loading of significant quantities of humanitarian aid, with a methodology satisfying the heightened security needs of involved parties.
Secondly, ensuring collaboration with states possessing maritime resources capable of transporting aid based on the chosen delivery point (Gaza, Egypt, Israel) and the timeline in relation to on-ground conditions.
Both parameters have been implemented and received public acceptance from Israel, along with the practical assistance of the United Kingdom. These elements are crucial, and discussions are ongoing with other relevant parties, including the Palestinian Authority and the United Nations.
Additionally, the aspect of implementing the “Amaltheia Plan,” which includes the option for direct delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, now exists.
The use of this capability, which was created temporally, can be activated when the international community chooses to do so. Cyprus, from the beginning, did not promise to control all aspects but, on the contrary, works within its means to contribute to addressing the rapidly deteriorating situation.
Today, it is announced that Cyprus and the United Kingdom, through exceptional cooperation and absolute understanding, have sent the first shipment of nearly 90 tons, transported by a suitable maritime vessel provided by the United Kingdom, capable of accommodating any delivery option, evaluated based on on-ground conditions.
The shipment includes 10 tons of medical supplies contributed by the Republic of Cyprus.
This humanitarian aid arrived at the Port Said in Egypt and will subsequently be transported, in coordination with the Egyptian Red Crescent, to the predetermined crossing point in Rafah, based on applicable procedures.
The process of receiving and distributing aid in the Gaza Strip involves relevant authorities in accordance with existing arrangements, including the Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).
Present at the arrival of the aid shipment in Port Said were the Commissioner and staff of the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Cairo.
Through its multifaceted contribution, Cyprus strengthens its role in the region. A significant economic contribution of €1.1 million for 2023, considerably higher compared to previous years, has been provided by Cyprus through UNRWA, the World Food Programme (WFP), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Egyptian Red Crescent.
The development of the “Amaltheia Plan” has commenced and is progressing with the participation of involved parties.
Efforts will continue by adapting to evolving on-ground realities. The process involves consultations with directly involved parties and interested partners, aiming for the optimal implementation of operational aspects of the initiative, encompassing immediate, mid-term, and long-term planning, as well as delivery options.
The selection of the secure departure point, Larnaca, which consolidates necessary critical infrastructure, has been ensured, tested, implemented, and approved.
Our efforts will persist, with an eye on the future, in a systematic manner and always with respect for the sensitive nature of the issue and the necessity of responsible communication that does not undermine the ongoing efforts.
