in-cyprus 13 June 2024
British High Commissioner to Cyprus, Irfan Siddiq, hosted a reception as part of the King’s Birthday celebrations at the Commissioner’s Residence in Nicosia on June 12.
The event brought together Cypriot officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, showcasing the strong diplomatic, cultural, and historical ties between the two countries.
“The relationship between the United Kingdom and Cyprus remains unique and deeply valued,” Siddiq said. “It is defined by historical, cultural, and social ties that so closely bind us together.”
Highlighting the strong human bridge between the two countries, Siddiq noted the significant presence of Cypriots in the UK and British nationals in Cyprus: “The nearly 400,000 Cypriots living in the UK and the more than 80,000 British nationals here on the island.”
The High Commissioner also acknowledged the UK’s leading role in the Cypriot tourism sector: “British tourists continue to be the largest group of visitors to Cyprus, on track to break records with 1.2 million visitors this year.”
Military and humanitarian cooperation between the UK and Cyprus took centre stage in the past year. Siddiq highlighted their joint efforts, saying, “We’ve worked in partnership to tackle regional threats and provide humanitarian support.”
He proudly recalled the UK’s response to Cyprus’ Amalthea humanitarian aid initiative: “We are proud that the UK was the first country to stand beside Cyprus and recognise the potential of Cyprus’ Amalthea Corridor initiative. We were the first country to deliver humanitarian aid to Cyprus, the first country to provide a vessel to transport such aid and the first partner country to attempt to deliver aid to Gaza from Cyprus.”
He noted that over 100 tonnes of UK aid reached Gaza through Amalthea.
On the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, Siddiq reiterated the UK’s stance: “The United Kingdom, like the Republic of Cyprus, has been clear in calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, along with the lifting of restrictions on aid and the release of hostages.”
Drawing parallels with historical events, Siddiq reflected on the recent D-Day commemorations: “The moving events last week recognising the sacrifice and fortitude of those involved in the D-Day landings. Unfortunately, Russia’s illegal war has made such courage and sacrifice necessary again for brave Ukrainians.”
He emphasised the shared determination of the UK and Cyprus to stand against Russian aggression and their commitment to providing military and economic support to Ukraine.
Siddiq highlighted their partnership in establishing a Sanctions Implementation Unit to ensure compliance with sanctions against Russia.
Regarding the Cyprus Problem, he reaffirmed the UK’s support for a bizonal, bicommunal solution: “We continue to unwaveringly support a just and enduring solution based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality.”
The event also featured a multimedia theme, marking milestones for the BBC and the centenary of the iconic red British telephone box.
“You will find one here this evening, courtesy of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, as some of these telephone boxes have remained in Cyprus decades after their introduction,” he said.
