Cyprus on Monday publicly thanked the United Arab Emirates for its swift and generous assistance in tackling the island’s growing water crisis.

President Nikos Christodoulides called UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, expressing “sincere and deep gratitude” for the Emirates’ decision to send mobile desalination units to Cyprus.

The equipment will help meet the country’s pressing water needs, which have worsened amid ongoing concerns about drought and supply shortages.

During the call, Christodoulides invited his Emirati counterpart to visit Cyprus. The invitation, if accepted, would mark a significant moment in bilateral ties.

Officials in Nicosia view such a visit as a chance to deepen existing relations, explore new areas of cooperation, and coordinate actions to promote peace and prosperity in the region.

Christodoulides noted that the timing was ideal, particularly as Cyprus prepares to take over the rotating presidency of the council of the European Union in January 2026.

He stressed that one of the top priorities during that presidency would be to strengthen relations between the EU and the Gulf cooperation council.

Both leaders also exchanged views on regional developments.

President Christodoulides shared insights from his recent meetings with regional heads of state, part of ongoing efforts to advance dialogue, stability, and peace in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East.

The government spokesman said the republic of Cyprus remains firmly committed to its strategic partnership with the UAE. He added that the friendship and solidarity shown by the Gulf nation in challenging times lay the groundwork for broader and closer cooperation in the future.