Speaking during a visit of an army outpost in the Tylliria area ahead of Easter, President Nikos Christodoulides said opening a crossing point at Kokkina is on the agenda of discussions with the Turkish Cypriot side.
Responding to a question on the issue, he said: “It is one of our proposals. It concerns an area of about 4.6 kilometres and would greatly improve daily life for residents.”
He added that such a step would be a meaningful confidence‑building measure from the Turkish Cypriot side. “So far, there has been no positive response,” he noted.
On his planned meeting with the Turkish Cypriot leader on Monday afternoon, he said: “My aim is to discuss issues of substance, while also being ready to discuss confidence‑building measures.”
‘Cyprus working for de‑escalation’
On international efforts underway to de‑escalate regional tensions following the launch of a war against Iran by the US and Israel on February 28, 2026, Christodoulides said: “This is the key objective at this moment, and I hope these initiatives will bear fruit.”
He added: “Cyprus is in no way part of the crisis. We are part of the region’s geography, but as the country holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, we are doing everything we can to achieve de‑escalation.”
On Drousiotis allegations
Asked about the allegations made by journalist Makarios Drousiotis regarding corruption and sexual abuse of minors by high-profile figures, the President said he could not predict how the case would develop but emphasised two points:
“First, the Republic of Cyprus has institutions and procedures, and they will be followed in this case, as in every case,” he said.
“Second, the responsible minister – the Minister of Justice – will be briefed by the Chief of Police on Mr Drousiotis’s claims. He will then inform the Cabinet. If necessary, the Cabinet is ready to take specific decisions. We are not waiting to see how things unfold; we are already prepared, should the need arise, regarding the steps we will take.”