An agreement on the delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) between Cyprus and Lebanon was signed in Beirut by the Presidents of the two countries, Nikos Christodoulides and Joseph Aoun.

It was also announced that dialogue is underway on the electrical interconnection between the two states, and it was agreed that Cyprus and Lebanon will jointly approach the World Bank to prepare a feasibility study for the project.

The President of the Republic was received by President Aoun, followed by a private meeting.

The two Presidents then took part in expanded talks between the delegations of both countries.

After statements to the media, a working lunch followed before the President of the Republic departed for Cyprus.

The delimitation agreement between the EEZs of the Republic of Cyprus and Lebanon was described as historic by the Presidents of both countries.

In a joint press conference with his Lebanese counterpart, President Christodoulides stressed that the agreement is a strategic milestone that formally seals the level of bilateral relations.

He added that a strong political message is being sent: Cyprus and Lebanon, respecting international law and international conventions, continue to invest in bilateral and regional cooperation, as well as in security and stability.

The President of the Republic noted that the agreement lays the foundation for broader cooperation in the Mediterranean region, which—he pointed out—can become an alternative energy corridor to Europe.

He affirmed that the Republic of Cyprus remains a stable, reliable and predictable partner for Lebanon in addressing the challenges it faces. He said Nicosia fully supports Lebanon’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The President of Lebanon referred to the importance of bilateral agreements and the promotion of hydrocarbon exploration, adding that there is a joint plan for cooperation between the Rescue Coordination Centers of the two countries.

Joseph Aoun stressed that Lebanon is looking forward to the start of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which could accelerate cooperation mechanisms between Beirut and Brussels.