Filenews 19 December 2024- by Andreas Pibishis
Concluding the second meeting, in the framework of the Strategic Dialogue between the Republic of Cyprus and the United Kingdom, Nicosia records specific benefits. These benefits range from strategic cooperation and political dialogue to deepening security and defence relations.
The list of benefits of the Strategic Dialogue for the Republic of Cyprus includes the following:
- The framework for strategic cooperation between the RoC and the UK and the political dialogue between the two countries are strengthened.
- The importance of cooperation on Defence and Security issues is underlined and its strengthening is promoted.
- Building a positive agenda based on the strategic priorities of the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding is on track, promoting cooperation in existing and new areas, such as artificial intelligence, investments, crisis management, diplomatic education, culture and green energy.
- The stabilizing role of the RoC in the region is highlighted and consolidated.
- Further strengthening bilateral political, economic, social and cultural ties.
- Trade and promotion of Cypriot products and services in the British market is enhanced.
- The creation of opportunities for young people is promoted, inter alia, through opportunities opened up in research and innovation and education/attendance at British universities.
- The dialogue is strengthened and new bases are laid for strengthening trust in the relations between the RoC and the UK with the new UK government on issues such as the British bases and the Cyprus problem (UK as guarantor power and author of resolutions on the Cyprus problem in the UN Security Council).
During the second meeting held in London, the Strategic Dialogue between the two countries included a total of seven thematic sections: 1. Foreign and Regional Policy, 2. Defence and Security, 3. Law Enforcement, Serious Organised Crime and Terrorism, 4. Education, Culture, Science and Innovation, 5. Trade and Prosperity, 6. EU-UK relations, and 7. Cyprus.
In the joint communiqué issued after the meeting of delegations of the two Foreign Ministries, on foreign and regional policy issues, it is noted, inter alia, that "Cyprus and the United Kingdom have maintained a strong stance in response to the conflict in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and Syria." References are also made to the cooperation of the two countries for the implementation of the "Amalthea" plan as well as for the evacuation of civilians from countries in the region. The UK and Cyprus agree that the security and stability of the wider region, based on full respect for international law and the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, is a main, common objective and remain committed to engage proactively to this end.
The intensifying crises in the region have highlighted the importance of continuing close cooperation to promote our common interests, support regional stability and security. The two countries also agreed to upgrade cooperation between them, which will include a more consistent and timely exchange of information. The two countries are working to sign a new General Security Agreement in 2025 "which will facilitate the improved exchange and protection of classified information".
In the field of education, culture, science and innovation, cooperation so far was discussed and how deepening can be achieved.
In the trade and prosperity chapter, "the UK and Cyprus committed to exploring opportunities and formats for changing knowledge, information and ideas in order to support mutually beneficial joint ventures".
Following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on maritime cooperation in 2023, the UK and the Republic of Cyprus are focusing on implementing key priorities related to seafarers' welfare and safety and the green transition. In the field of environment, reference was made to international treaties and further cooperation between the two countries was agreed.
In the context of the dialogue, the two countries agree on strengthening counter-terrorism capabilities, intelligence analysis to combat organized crime, strong judicial cooperation, etc.
In the area of justice, the common legal heritage between the RoC and the UK was reaffirmed and it was agreed to continue the exchange of legal expertise and best practices.
The United Kingdom and Cyprus reaffirmed their commitment to work closely together for a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus Problem within the parameters of the United Nations (UN) for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as provided for in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
