Christodoulides calls for restraint, stronger EU role in Middle East

President Nikos Christodoulides during a press conference at the Informal EU Heads of State summit in Nicosia on Friday, urged restraint and diplomacy amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning that instability in the region directly impacts Europe’s security and economy.

“We are experiencing in real time how quickly instability can transcend borders, threatening civilians, disrupting our economies and exposing critical infrastructure to risk,” he said.

He stressed that “restraint must prevail over escalation”, adding that diplomacy and dialogue remain the only viable path to restoring stability.

Christodoulides underlined that the European Union is actively engaged in the region, working closely with partners to promote stability, security and prosperity, a key priority of Cyprus’ EU Council presidency.

He expressed solidarity with countries in the Gulf and Jordan, while commending Egypt for its mediation efforts towards a ceasefire.

“The Gulf countries have proven yet again that they are reliable partners to Europe,” he said, adding that “their security is also Europe’s security”.

The president also reiterated support for Lebanon, praising the leadership of President Joseph Aoun and stressing the importance of engagement between Lebanon and Israel, as well as the need for an inclusive recovery process.

He said discussions with regional partners showed a “shared understanding of risks and a shared willingness to act”, with agreement on strengthening cooperation in specific areas.

“It is absolutely clear that the security and stability of this region is interlinked with that of Europe,” he said, describing the Middle East as a “vital neighbourhood” for the EU.

Christodoulides also pointed to the importance of the European Commission’s Mediterranean pact, calling it the most serious effort in two decades to reset relations with the southern neighbourhood.

“The pact is operational and delivers results,” he said, adding that focus will now shift to implementation.

He expressed hope that the meeting would mark the start of more consistent and results-driven dialogue between the EU and its partners, with Cyprus positioning itself as a bridge between Europe and the wider region.

“Crises and challenges can pave the way for opportunities,” he said.