**Tsipras Urges Closer Coordination Between Greece and Cyprus Amid Regional Tensions**
Former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation between Greece and Cyprus during a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides at the presidential palace in Nicosia on Tuesday. Tsipras's visit comes at a time of increasing geopolitical instability in the region, prompting calls for a united front between the two nations.
During their discussions, Tsipras and Christodoulides addressed several pressing issues, including regional developments and the ongoing Cyprus issue. Tsipras reflected on the strong relations that existed between the Greek and Cypriot governments during his tenure as Prime Minister, particularly highlighting the collaborative efforts made to resolve the Cyprus problem. He referred to the unsuccessful Crans-Montana negotiations in 2017, underscoring the need for renewed dialogue.
"Today, in a time of intense geopolitical crises, this coordination between Athens and Nicosia is more necessary than ever," Tsipras stated. He reiterated the importance of supporting Cyprus in safeguarding its sovereign rights under international law, describing both Greece and Cyprus as "forces of peace and stability." Tsipras stressed that adherence to international law is crucial for protecting the vital interests of both nations, cautioning against the imposition of "the rule of the strong" over established legal principles.
This visit marks Tsipras's first trip to Cyprus since the formation of his new political movement, the Greek Left Alliance (Elas). He is scheduled to participate in the third international conference organized by the Alexis Tsipras Institute in collaboration with the Prometheus Institute, which will take place in Nicosia on Wednesday.
Tsipras also touched upon the developments concerning the Cyprus issue, expressing agreement with President Christodoulides on the necessity of restarting negotiations from the point they were previously suspended. He advocated for a renewed commitment to finding a just and sustainable solution to the Cyprus problem, emphasizing that such efforts should benefit all Cypriots, both Greek and Turkish.
In addition to the Cyprus issue, Tsipras addressed broader regional tensions, particularly in the Middle East. He expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts would lead to a de-escalation of conflicts in the region. "I wish and hope that the agreement to be signed on Friday in Geneva will be lasting and definitive, because this illegal, irrational and unnecessary war must stop," he remarked.
When questioned about comments made by former Akel secretary general Andros Kyprianou regarding remarks allegedly made by former President Nicos Anastasiades about the citizenship-by-investment program, Tsipras opted not to engage. "I have come here to discuss politics. The parapolitical is another discussion that does not concern me," he stated, maintaining his focus on substantive political issues.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the discussions between Tsipras and Christodoulides highlight the critical need for Greece and Cyprus to work closely together in addressing shared challenges and pursuing common goals. The emphasis on international law and cooperative dialogue reflects a strategic approach to navigating the complexities of regional dynamics.