Speaking to the press after the reception ceremony, President Anastasiades expressed his gratitude for Mr Macron’s invaluable initiatives at the European and international levels “so that the Mediterranean will finally become a region that is not under the control of either Turkey or other powers, and not of Europe. The initiatives you are undertaking bring out what the role of Europe should be, namely to not be limited to declarations, but to undertake, through initiatives, a leading role and provide support to member states.”

Praising Cyprus-French relations, Mr Anastasiades said he and his French counterpart discussed ways to further deepen those ties, on the basis of the French-Cypriot strategic agenda signed in 2016. He also assured that “Cyprus will always be the most hospitable of countries with regard to the French fleet and beyond. We have always been and continue to be a country of real stability and security in the region”.

On his part, President Macron said President Anastasiades’ visit to Paris proves how important the Eastern Mediterranean region is for Europe. “It would be a serious mistake to leave our security matters to the hands of other players; this does not constitute an option for Europe and it is something that France will not allow”.

He then conveyed France’s solidarity toward Cyprus, and also Greece, vis-à-vis the Turkish violations of their sovereign rights. “It is unacceptable for the maritime space of an EU member state to be violated or threatened. Those who contribute to this must face sanctions, and you may count on France’s support on this”.