A ceremonial meeting took place at the presidential palace in Nicosia on Wednesday, as Cyprus welcomed the Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas, marking his first official trip abroad since assuming office.
President Nikos Christodoulides received Tasoulas with full honours, including a military guard and the national anthem. Following the official welcome, the Greek president laid a wreath at the statue of Archbishop Makarios III. The two heads of state then held a private meeting, followed by expanded talks between their delegations. Christodoulides described the visit as both symbolic and substantive, emphasising the deepening ties between the two nations.
“This is not just a matter of protocol,” he said.
“It’s a visit of significant political value, especially considering the strengthened cooperation between Cyprus and Greece through the high council established in 2023.”
He stressed the importance of close coordination between the two governments on internal governance, regional developments in the Middle East, and renewed momentum on the Cyprus issue.
“There is movement after seven years of silence, as the UN secretary-general recently stated in Geneva,” Christodoulides said.
“We are realistic about the challenges but determined to support progress.”
He also noted that Cyprus is preparing to take over the EU council presidency in January 2026, an opportunity to promote regional integration with the European Union and advance the bloc’s priorities.
President Tasoulas echoed this sense of shared purpose.
“I am honoured to make my first trip abroad to Cyprus. This visit shows the unbreakable bond between our countries,” he said.
He underlined the renewed international interest in resolving the Cyprus problem.
“After years of inaction, the matter is moving again within the UN framework. The European Union has also expressed its support for a solution based on security council decisions.”
“Greece and Cyprus are handling this issue within international norms, aiming for reunification that guarantees rights for all residents, regardless of faith or background.”
During the meeting, President Christodoulides awarded Tasoulas the grand collar of the order of Makarios III, Cyprus’ highest honour.
“This is a small token of our appreciation for your presence and longstanding commitment to our cause,” Christodoulides said.
President Tasoulas responded that the award was “not only a great honour, but also a reminder of the responsibility it carries.”