President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, welcomed Australia’s new High Commissioner, Emily Louise Pugin, on Friday. The presentation of credentials took place in the Presidential Palace in Nicosia.
During the meeting, President Christodoulides expressed Cyprus’ gratitude for Australia’s stance on the Cyprus issue. He highlighted Canberra’s continuous support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, as reflected in United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The President also acknowledged Australia’s decade-long contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP). He described the mission as one of Australia’s longest peacekeeping operations, underlining its commitment to international peace and security.
Christodoulides noted that Cyprus and Australia share long-standing ties of friendship, grounded in common values, mutual respect, and commitment to international law. He emphasised the importance of the Cypriot community in Australia, describing it as a “central pillar” of the bilateral relationship.
He said Cyprus aims to expand cooperation in multiple areas, including trade, investment, shipping, innovation, renewable energy, education, tourism, and crisis management. He welcomed the opportunities from the EU–Australia Free Trade Agreement and highlighted Australia’s practical collaboration in citizen evacuation operations, as well as trust in Cyprus as a reliable partner and logistics hub during regional emergencies.
Christodoulides also noted the recent constructive discussions on halloumi exports, describing the smooth coordination between authorities as a reflection of trust and close collaboration. At a multilateral level, he pointed to the positive history of cooperation between the two countries within international organisations and reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to continue supporting Australian initiatives and candidacies.
He concluded by sending Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, and the Australian people “warmest greetings and a message of sincere friendship” from the Government and people of Cyprus, and welcomed High Commissioner Pugin to her new role.
High Commissioner Pugin, in turn, said she brings “strong historical and fraternal ties” between the two nations. She highlighted Australia’s pride in hosting the second-largest Cypriot community abroad and described the diaspora’s contribution to Australia’s multicultural fabric.
Pugin confirmed Australia’s long-standing support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus, citing UN Security Council resolutions. She praised the country’s cooperation in supporting Australian citizens during periods of regional instability. She added that she looks forward to strengthening economic and strategic ties, including through the EU–Australia Free Trade Agreement, and noted Cyprus’ current role holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The High Commissioner said she considers it an honour to serve in Cyprus, describing the bilateral relationship as “deep and warm,” and pledged to act as a “proud representative of Australia and a steadfast friend of the Republic of Cyprus.”