UK Prime Minister Starmer Strengthens Ties with Cyprus During Historic Visit

Starmer meets Cypriot president and thanks British troops for critical operations in the Middle East during the first UK-Cyprus bilateral visit in over 50 years.

• Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a historic meeting with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, marking the first UK-Cyprus bilateral visit by a British leader since 1971.
• Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations in defense, security, trade, and the creation of a sanctions unit to strengthen Cyprus's pro-Western alignment.
• Starmer visited British troops at RAF Akrotiri, commending their efforts in key operations, including combating Islamic State, humanitarian aid for Gaza, and evacuation planning for Lebanon.
• The Prime Minister acknowledged the sensitive nature of some military missions, emphasizing their importance in ensuring the safety of the UK and its allies during a volatile period in the Middle East.
• The visit drew criticism from Turkish Cypriot authorities for excluding engagement with the Turkish Cypriot community, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.

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