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The Minister of Foreign
Affairs, Mr Konstantinos Kombos, in a statement to the media regarding the
initiative of the Republic of Cyprus for the creation of a maritime
humanitarian corridor to Gaza, stated the following:
“The effort of the Republic of
Cyprus for the establishment of a maritime corridor to transport humanitarian
aid to Gaza continues. A secured, fully monitored hub and maritime corridor,
through which aid can be sent in high volumes and high frequency.
From the outset, we
participated constructively in a discussion that now engages the entirety of
the international community. We are proving that we are an active part of the
region, contributing with positive and constructive proposals.
We have a specific methodology
based on our comparative advantages:
Firstly, geographic proximity.
Secondly, an existing, sound
network of infrastructure.
Thirdly, good neighbourly
relations with the countries in the region. And finally – and most
importantly – a relationship of political trust with Israel. A relationship
that has been built for years and did not arise circumstantially in recent
weeks.
We have had numerous contacts
and meetings with EU member states, institutions, countries in the region and
international organisations, shaping our approach, by taking into account the
positions, concerns and proposals of our interlocutors. I will mention
indicatively two points:
Firstly, the unidirectional
flow will start from the Republic of Cyprus and will not involve individuals
but exclusively goods. Secondly, the security of the cargo is intertwined
with Israel’s security; without Israel’s consent, there can be no corridor.
Therefore, we are in constant
contact with Israel. A technical team visited Israel this week and, as you
know, I visited the neighbouring country yesterday, having meetings with both
the President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. A structured dialogue with
interdepartmental working groups has been agreed upon.
Objectively and realistically,
the developments will influence the effort, as well as the issue of timing,
and the synchronization of will and events.
There is still a long way to go
and given uncertainty. We will continue our efforts actively, methodically,
and outward-looking.”
(ASP/AF)
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