**Christodoulides to Attend Bastille Day Celebrations and Meet European Leaders in Paris**
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides is set to participate in France’s Bastille Day celebrations on Tuesday, following his arrival in Paris on Monday evening. The president has been invited by French President Emmanuel Macron to attend the national festivities, which include a traditional military parade along the iconic Champs-Élysées.
As part of the celebrations, President Christodoulides will meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and several other foreign leaders. This gathering presents an opportunity for discussions on various topics of mutual interest among European nations.
Prior to the parade, President Christodoulides took the time to engage with the Cyprus National Guard contingent that has been invited to participate in the celebrations. During this meeting, held in the presence of National Guard commander Lieutenant General Georgios Theodorou, the president emphasized the significance of the invitation for the Cypriot unit to showcase their flag in front of prominent heads of state and government.
Christodoulides remarked that this participation is not only a matter of national pride but also a reflection of the robust strategic partnership between Cyprus and France. He described the current state of bilateral relations as being at an all-time high, highlighting the importance of cooperation between the two nations.
The Bastille Day celebrations are a key event in France, commemorating the French Revolution and the birth of the Republic. The military parade is a central feature of the day, showcasing the country’s armed forces and serving as a symbol of national unity.
President Christodoulides is expected to return to Cyprus later on Tuesday afternoon, accompanied by Deputy Government Spokesman Yiannis Antoniou and other government officials. His attendance at the celebrations underscores Cyprus's commitment to strengthening its ties with France and engaging in broader European dialogues.