Greek President Tasoulas makes first official trip to Cyprus

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.

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 added that the appointment of UN envoy María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar earlier this year has contributed to “a more structured approach” in reigniting stalled talks.

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.”

Later that evening, President Christodoulides hosted an official dinner in honour of his guest. During a toast, he reaffirmed the “brotherly and unshakable” ties between Nicosia and Athens, announcing that the republic of Cyprus will soon launch initiatives to recognise the contribution of the Hellenic force in Cyprus (Eldyk), with special tribute to the 105 soldiers who fell in 1974, 58 of whom remain missing.

“Our deep gratitude for Greece’s unwavering support is crystal clear,” Christodoulides said, adding that both countries aim to become “bridges of communication between the EU and the Middle East”.

He paid special homage to the Greek soldiers who “fought heroically and fell gloriously for the freedom of Cyprus”, calling their sacrifice a testament to shared heritage and values.

“We owe a lasting debt to Eldyk,” he said, noting the government’s intention to formally honour their mission and legacy.

President Tasoulas, in his own toast, reaffirmed the joint goal of ending Turkey’s decades-long occupation.

“The unacceptable claims attempting to legitimise the invasion’s outcomes will not shake our resolve,” he said.

“We seek a mutually acceptable solution under the UN framework, one that removes occupying forces, ends outdated guarantees, secures displaced persons’ rights and allows the EU acquis to be applied across the entire republic.”

He added that Cyprus remains a prosperous country, playing an ever-growing role as a pillar of stability and peace in the region.

As a symbol of enduring friendship, Christodoulides awarded Tasoulas the grand collar of the order of Makarios III, the nation’s highest honour.

“This is a small token of our appreciation for your presence and your longstanding commitment to our shared cause,” he said.

Tasoulas responded that the award was “not only a great honour, but also a reminder of the responsibility it carries.”