Israel-Cyprus Relations: A Closer Look

Bilateral Relations

Israel and Cyprus have maintained close bilateral relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1960. Israel has an embassy in Nicosia, while Cyprus has an embassy in Tel Aviv. These strong ties are fostered through cooperation in various sectors, including defense, trade, and tourism.

Defense Cooperation

Israel and Cyprus have a long history of defense cooperation. Cyprus has purchased military equipment from Israel and received military training from Israeli personnel. The two countries have also engaged in joint military exercises to enhance their defense capabilities.

Trade and Economic Cooperation

Trade between Israel and Cyprus has been steadily increasing in recent years. Israel exports a range of goods to Cyprus, including electrical equipment, machinery, and chemicals. Cyprus, on the other hand, exports agricultural products, such as citrus fruits and potatoes, to Israel. The two countries also cooperate on energy projects, including the EastMed gas pipeline.

Tourism Cooperation

Cyprus is a popular tourist destination for Israelis. In 2019, over 50,000 Israelis visited Cyprus. The two countries work together to promote tourism and facilitate travel between them. They have also established direct flights between major cities to increase accessibility.

Regional Cooperation

In addition to bilateral relations, Israel and Cyprus also cooperate on regional issues. They are both members of the Union for the Mediterranean and participate in regional initiatives aimed at promoting stability and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Maritime Cooperation

Israel and Cyprus have signed agreements on maritime boundary delimitation and joint hydrocarbon exploration in the Eastern Mediterranean. The two countries are working together to develop a maritime aid corridor to provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

Security Cooperation

Israel and Cyprus share a common interest in maintaining regional security. They cooperate on issues such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and cyber security. The two countries have signed agreements on information sharing and law enforcement cooperation.

Conclusion

Israel and Cyprus have established strong and multifaceted relations based on shared interests and values. Their bilateral cooperation in defense, trade, tourism, and regional affairs contributes to the stability and prosperity of both countries. As they continue to deepen their partnership, Israel and Cyprus are well-positioned to play a significant role in shaping the future of the Eastern Mediterranean.