Repatriation of stranded citizens ‘government’s priority’

The repatriation of Cypriots stuck in the Middle East as soon as there is a way to bring them home is the priority of the Cyprus government, the foreign ministry said on Sunday.

Spokesman Theodoros Gotsis said at the same time, Foreign Minster Constantinos Kombos is in telephone connection with companies and partners in the region over developments.

In a post on X, Kombos said he had spoken to Vice President of the European Commission Kaya Kallas, and his Italian and Greek counterpart Antonio Tajani and Giorgos Gerapetritis.

He said the main message is the need to de-escalate the situation in Iran through diplomacy and dialogue to regain regional security.

Kombos will later on Sunday take part in a teleconference of European foreign ministers called by Kallas to discuss the situation in the Middle East.

Gotsis said the meeting will also address the issue of European citizens stuck in the region.

“Once the airspace opens and the possibility exists, the priority for Cyprus will be its citizens,” he said.

He also referred to a circular issued by the UAE foreign ministry which said it will cover the costs for those trapped there. He called on anyone in the UAE to call +97126576283 for further information.

He also urged citizens in the Middle East to register on the Cyprus platform Connect2CY (https://www.connect2cy.gov.cy)