Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos signals clear Cypriot backing for EU sanctions against West Bank extremists while championing Egypt as an essential security pillar and calling for tougher crackdowns on Russia's "shadow fleet."

Deepening the Strategic EU-Egypt Alliance

Cyprus supports the adoption of restrictive measures against violent settlers and extremist elements, Foreign Affairs Minister Constantinos Kombos said on Monday following the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) in Luxembourg, according to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In remarks after the meeting, Kombos highlighted the strategic importance of Egypt as a key EU partner. “We’ve just concluded today’s work of the Association Council with Egypt. A very important meeting. Egypt is a strategic partner for the European Union, a pillar of security in the Eastern Mediterranean, and a key actor in relation to controlling illegal migration as well as countering radicalism and terrorism,” he said.

He congratulated Egypt on the outcome of the Association Council and called on the European Union to adopt a more ambitious approach. “I want to congratulate Egypt for today’s achievement with the Association Council, and I want to encourage the European Union to be more ambitious in its strategic comprehensive agreement in relation to Egypt as well as making a more equitable use of financing,” Kombos noted.

Middle East Diplomacy and Sanctions on Extremism

The Foreign Affairs Minister also referred to discussions on the evolving situation involving Iran and the United States, welcoming the announcement of a memorandum of understanding. “We welcome the news about the MOU. We look forward to it being concluded and being signed in the next few days,” he said, noting that Cyprus is also examining the broader regional implications of the arrangement.

On the Middle East, Kombos welcomed the US–Iran agreement and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and adherence to international law, including the Law of the Sea. He also underlined the need to intensify efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, while expressing concern over rising settler violence in the West Bank.

“The Republic of Cyprus has been very clear in supporting moving forward with the adoption of restrictive measures,” he said, including measures targeting violent settlers and political figures who incite unacceptable behaviour.

Kombos also welcomed the EU’s new support package for Lebanon, stressing the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and continuing European assistance to the country.

Ukraine Accession Milestones and Countering Circumvention

According to the statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, EU Foreign Ministers also discussed Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine, developments in the Middle East and EU–China relations.

In relation to Ukraine, Kombos welcomed the adoption of a new sanctions package against Russia and reiterated Cyprus’ readiness, in its upcoming EU Council Presidency role, to advance work on further measures. He also stressed the need to intensify efforts to tackle sanctions circumvention and the so-called “shadow fleet.” He described the opening of negotiations on Ukraine’s first accession cluster as “historic,” noting that it constitutes a milestone for both Ukraine and Moldova.

Global Relations and Bilateral Outreach

On EU–China relations, he reiterated Cyprus’ support for a pragmatic, equal-footing approach and for continued dialogue based on reciprocity, while reaffirming Cyprus’ consistent position on the “One China” policy.

Earlier in the day, Kombos held an informal working breakfast with Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, reaffirming Cyprus’ support for deepening EU–Armenia relations and highlighting the importance of stability in the South Caucasus.

Following the Council, he also participated in the EU–Egypt Association Council and held bilateral meetings with counterparts on the margins of the proceedings.

Source: CNA(ΚΥΠΕ)