Minister Byrne meets with President of Cyprus

The Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, today (30 September) met with President of Cyprus, Nikos Christdoulides, during his visit to Cyprus.

Minister Byrne and President Christdoulides discussed a range of topics, including bilateral relations, developments in the region, and preparations for both countries upcoming Presidencies of the Council of the European Union. Minister Byrne also conveyed his best wishes to the President on behalf of the Irish people in advance of the Cypriot Independence Day on 1 October.

Minister Byrne commented: “I was honoured to meet with President Chritodoulides in Nicosia on Tuesday. As small EU member states, Ireland and Cyprus are likeminded partners on a range of EU issues and we enjoy close collaboration and a strong bilateral relationship.

“As European Affairs Minister, I am very conscious that Ireland will take up our Presidency of the Council of the European Union directly after Cyprus, and I took the opportunity with President Chritodoulides to discuss priority areas of future strategic collaboration, on the EU agenda.

“During our meeting, I spoke of the constructive role played by the Irish Defence Forces historically, and by members of An Garda Síochána at present, in serving with the United Nations Force in Cyprus on the island. Ireland takes pride in the almost continuous presence and service of Irish personnel as part of the UN Force in Cyprus since its inception in 1964.”

Minister Byrne’s meeting with President Christodoulides comes amongst a wider programme of engagements over three days in Cyprus (30 September - 1 October).

ENDS

Press Office

30 September 2025