The similarities between Cyprus and Estonia, despite their geographical distance, were noted on Tuesday by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, and his Estonian counterpart, Alar Karis, following their meeting at the Presidential Palace.
They also agreed to further deepen their cooperation on all levels, exploring new areas such as investments, cybersecurity, and shipping.
In their statements after their private meeting and extended consultations involving members of the delegations from both countries, President Christodoulides stated that the understanding and cooperation between Cyprus and Estonia are “stronger than ever.”
He further said that he looks forward to reciprocating the visit of the Estonian President, who arrived in Cyprus with a business delegation, and to visiting Tallinn with a Cypriot business delegation, aiming to create conditions for cooperation between the business communities of the two countries.
Karis expressed his delight at being in Cyprus during the period when both countries celebrate the 20th anniversary of their accession to the EU.
“This visit highlights the depth of our partnership with Cyprus and our wish to further nurture our friendly relations. We are both EU member states who navigate a unique political and geographical landscape.” he said.
He also referred to Estonia’s stance on the reunification of Cyprus, stating “I would also like to be clear when I would stand on the reunification of Cyprus. We fully support the unification based on bicommunal and bizonal federation, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions. We must all do our part to support achieving this.”
He further stated that his country “particularly appreciates” all the efforts made by Cyprus to open a humanitarian corridor to provide much-needed additional sea assistance to Gaza.
With regard to migration, Karis said that Estonia fully supports Cyprus as a frontline member state facing migration challenges, adding that his country has actively contributed expertise and resources to EU external border protection through Frontex missions, including in Cyprus.
Replying to a question whether they have discussed specific ways with regard to strengthening bilateral relations in the fields of economy and investment, as well as tourism, President Christodoulides said “we discussed ways to enhance our bilateral relations. We have very good bilateral relations, but there are a lot of untapped potential, especially on issues of cybersecurity, digitalisation, maritime and of course, tourism, and the fact that the President is in Cyprus with a business, delegation, I think is a clear indication of the interests Estonian business community for investing in Cyprus”.
“I’m looking forward to reciprocate the visit, coming in Tallinn with a Cypriot business delegation in order to create the conditions for our business people to work together”, he concluded.
Replying to the same question, the President of Estonia said that “I think that’s an important thing that your people are going to visit Estonia because we can come here, tell the stories, but it’s important to come and see. And, of course, we have something to share with you.”
The two Presidents also emphasized the importance of continuing solidarity towards Ukraine.
