Cyprus and Italy have reaffirmed their strong commitment to deepening bilateral relations, following a high-level meeting between President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome. The meeting took place as part of President Christodoulides’ official visit to Italy.
President Christodoulides arrived at the Prime Minister’s Office at 5:00 pm (Cyprus time), where he was welcomed by Prime Minister Meloni with a military honour guard. The leaders then held a private discussion before addressing the press.
Strategic partnership and cooperation
Speaking to the media, President Christodoulides emphasised the “deep friendship and mutual respect” between the two nations, noting that their relationship is founded on shared principles, values, and trust. He highlighted the importance of close coordination with Italy, one of the EU’s six founding members, particularly during Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The leaders discussed a broad range of cooperation, including energy, security and defence, trade, education, and culture. Notably, they confirmed plans to launch a joint cultural exhibition titled “Cyprus and Italy: Shared Cultural Identities at the Dawn of History”, reflecting their longstanding Mediterranean heritage.
A key outcome of the discussions was the strategic decision to draft a joint partnership document, which will outline shared priorities and goals for the two countries and strengthen collaboration across a range of sectors. President Christodoulides described this step as part of a “systematic effort to further deepen ties” and indicated that the document would be completed in the near term.
Regional and EU priorities
The President underscored the importance of Mediterranean cooperation, the EU’s southern neighbourhood, and initiatives under the new Mediterranean Pact. He also noted that Cyprus and Italy are aligned on issues such as EU enlargement, transatlantic relations, support for Ukraine, the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework, and other strategic EU policies.
Christodoulides highlighted the contribution of Italy to UNPOL operations in Cyprus, reflecting Rome’s role in regional stability. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Meloni for her leadership within the European Council and for her active role in advancing shared European priorities.
'Excellent friends'
Prime Minister Meloni described the meeting as a continuation of a strong friendship, praising President Christodoulides as an “excellent friend.” She stressed that Cyprus and Italy share historical ties, a strategic geographic position, and common goals within the EU, particularly during the Cypriot EU Council Presidency.
The Italian Prime Minister highlighted areas of joint interest, including migration, competitiveness, energy security, digital infrastructure, investment, tourism, and innovation. She emphasised the importance of EU cooperation on protecting external borders and addressing irregular migration, noting that Cyprus and Italy are committed to delivering practical results.
Both leaders expressed their determination to continue working closely, combining shared responsibility and vision to enhance bilateral relations and contribute to a stronger, safer, and more united Europe.