Trilateral meeting in Paphos: ‘Any attack on Cyprus is an attack on Europe’
Trilateral meeting in Paphos: ‘Any attack on Cyprus is an attack on Europe’
Leaders Conclude Discussions Amid Regional Security Concerns
Following nearly an hour of closed-door deliberations, the trilateral gathering between French President Emmanuel Macron, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides concluded in Paphos. The meeting took place at Andreas Papandreou Air Base, with the three leaders addressing critical security issues affecting the broader European context.
Christodoulides emphasized that the stability of Cyprus is intrinsically tied to Europe’s security, calling the presence of the leaders a symbol of collective responsibility. “Your attendance holds not only symbolic value but is vital for Cyprus, Europe, and the EU as a whole,” he stated, expressing gratitude to both Macron and Mitsotakis for their support.
“The security of Cyprus means the security of Europe,” the Cypriot president reiterated, highlighting the interconnectedness of regional threats. He praised Mitsotakis for deploying frigates and fighters to Cyprus and acknowledged Macron’s military backing, while also extending thanks to Italy and Spain for reinforcing European stability in the area.
Macron reinforced the message that Europe stands united in protecting Cyprus, noting that the French nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is stationed nearby. He stressed the carrier’s role in a “defensive mission” to secure maritime trade routes during ongoing conflicts. “When Cyprus is attacked, Europe is attacked,” he asserted, underscoring France’s commitment to the region.
The French leader also addressed the situation in Lebanon, urging Hezbollah to halt strikes to allow Israel to respond. “I’ve engaged President Aoun multiple times, and I stand in solidarity with the Lebanese people,” Macron said. He further highlighted the importance of maintaining European influence in the Mediterranean, Persian Gulf, and Hormuz Strait to safeguard energy security and protect citizens.
Greece Commits to Cyprus’ Defense
Mitsotakis affirmed that securing Cyprus was his “national priority” from the outset, emphasizing the significance of the leaders’ collective presence. “The Republic of Cyprus is not and will never be alone,” he declared, linking the meeting to the reinforcement of mutual defense agreements within the EU.
“Our actions are purely defensive,” Mitsotakis clarified, stating that Greece’s involvement in the region reflects a practical demonstration of solidarity. He also called for enhanced support for the European operation Shields, urging other EU nations to contribute through naval assets to ensure freedom of navigation.
The Greek prime minister directly addressed the Cypriot populace, saying, “Our brothers and sisters, we would be here alone, but Europe shows and will show its solid support.” Mitsotakis arrived in Paphos shortly after 12:45 Greek time, meeting with Christodoulides and Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis. Macron joined later at 12:56, with the two leaders embracing upon his arrival.
As the meeting progressed, discussions underscored the European Union’s need to deepen its engagement with the Middle East to mitigate risks to regional security. The French president’s remarks highlighted the strategic importance of maintaining a strong European military footprint in key waters, ensuring stability in times of conflict.
