By Ruslan Nimchynskyi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Cyprus
The relationship between Ukraine and Cyprus exemplifies a dynamic partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to a stable, prosperous future. Since my appointment as Ambassador in 2020, I have had the privilege of fostering this bond, which spans political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian domains. As we navigate ongoing challenges, particularly Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Cyprus remains a steadfast partner.
Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1992, Ukraine and Cyprus have cultivated a robust partnership grounded in shared experiences of resilience against territorial challenges. Our political dialogue is vibrant, marked by high-level engagements and bilateral consultations. Interparliamentary ties, strengthened by a 2011 Memorandum of Understanding, include active friendship groups and meetings like the 2022 Zagreb summit, meetings in the framework of the International Crimea Platform, where leaders discuss deepening ties and supporting Ukraine’s European aspirations. Cultural and humanitarian exchanges, including city twinning and agreements on education and public health, further solidify our bond. Cyprus’s participation in the G7 Vilnius Declaration in 2023, as the 30th signatory providing security guarantees to Ukraine, underscores its commitment to our shared principles of international law and sovereignty.
Trade Cooperation: Building Economic Resilience Together
Despite challenges posed by the ongoing Russian aggression, our economic collaboration has thrived. In 2024, bilateral trade surpassed €105 million, gaining strong momentum. We aim to double this to €200 million in 2025. Key initiatives, including the June 2022 European Business Association event, the 2023 Ukrainian recovery dinner for over 70 Cypriot business leaders, and the presentation of Ukraine’s opportunities at the ICCC to over 20 Cypriot companies, have strengthened cooperation in reconstruction, IT, and renewable energy. In August 2025, we advanced our partnership with events highlighting strategic ties and the launch of a Ukrainian products hub in Limassol, fostering Cypriot investments in Ukrainian infrastructure and agriculture.
Despite wartime challenges, such as suspended air traffic affecting tourism, cooperation in renewable energy, digital mapping, and agriculture—supported by agreements like the 2012 agriculture pact and 2015 energy efficiency memorandum—remains strong.
Cyprus’s Support for Ukraine’s EU Integration Path
Cyprus is a vocal supporter of Ukraine’s European aspirations, aligning with our pursuit of EU membership since receiving candidate status in June 2022. Nicosia advocates for Ukraine’s integration into the EU single market, Schengen Area, Customs Union, Energy Union, Single Digital Market, and Common Aviation Area. This commitment was reaffirmed on July 18, 2025, when Cyprus’s Ambassador to Ukraine emphasized support for our EU path.
Cyprus contributes to EU initiatives aiding Ukraine’s reforms in governance, rule of law, and economic modernization, including the €2.3 billion package announced at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in July 2025. Bilateral agreements, such as the 2011 Memorandum on EU-related cooperation and the 2017 higher education pact, foster knowledge exchange. As accession negotiations, launched on June 25, 2024, progress, Cyprus’s role in the EU Council remains pivotal in championing Ukraine’s full membership. With Cyprus set to assume the EU Presidency in the first half of 2026, there are enhanced opportunities for advancing Ukraine’s integration agenda.
Support for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: A Shared Imperative
Cyprus’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity resonates deeply, given its own history. On August 19, 2025, President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated this stance in discussions with EU leaders, followed by the Foreign Minister’s reaffirmation on August 21, 2025. Cyprus endorses EU sanctions against Russia, implements a ‘zero tolerance’ policy on sanctions evasion since June 2023, and supports using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s recovery. Active participation in the Crimean Platform and contributions to humanitarian and military aid via EU channels reflect a commitment to a just peace. Our shared understanding of territorial violations strengthens our resolve to uphold international law.
Events like the May 2025 screening of the film “Can You Hear Me?” in Larnaca, focusing on Ukrainian military medics’ rehabilitation, showcase Cyprus’s solidarity and cultural support, organized in cooperation with local municipalities and the Ukrainian Embassy.
Perspectives for Mutual Cooperation: A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, the potential for Ukraine-Cyprus cooperation is vast and multifaceted, with opportunities to deepen ties across numerous sectors amid global challenges. In the economic sphere, post-war reconstruction offers a significant avenue for collaboration. Cyprus’s expertise in financial services, shipping, and tourism can support Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts, particularly in infrastructure and green energy projects. Joint ventures in renewable energy, leveraging the 2015 energy efficiency agreement, could position both nations as leaders in sustainable development. The ICC Ukraine Trade Hub in Limassol is poised to become a catalyst, connecting Ukrainian businesses with Cypriot and global markets, fostering innovation in IT and digitalization.
In technology and innovation, Cyprus’s growing tech ecosystem and Ukraine’s robust IT sector—evidenced by over 300,000 IT specialists and €7 billion in annual exports—present opportunities for partnerships in cybersecurity, software development, and digital governance. Collaborative research, startup incubators, and knowledge-sharing initiatives could drive mutual growth, with Cyprus’s strategic Mediterranean location enhancing access to European and Middle Eastern markets.
Tourism, a vital sector for both economies, holds substantial untapped potential. The restoration of air traffic will revive mutual tourism flows, building on pre-war trends where Cyprus was one of the most popular destination for Ukrainians. Joint marketing campaigns, cultural festivals, and educational exchange programs could further strengthen people-to-people ties, supported by existing agreements on culture and education. Additionally, cooperation in real estate and property development, drawing from Cyprus’s experience with foreign investments, could contribute to Ukraine’s urban reconstruction.
On the geopolitical and security front, Cyprus’s role in supporting Ukraine’s EU integration will be crucial as negotiations advance, especially during Cyprus’s upcoming EU Presidency in 2026. Joint advocacy within the EU for security reforms, energy diversification, and regional stability could amplify our voices. Enhanced military and defensecooperation, including through EU channels and bilateral dialogues, is essential, as seen in recent discussions on continued support against Russian aggression. Furthermore, collaboration in international forums like the UN, OSCE, with a focus on mutual interest issues (including energy security)could align our efforts to counter aggression and promote peace, drawing on our shared experiences of occupation.
Humanitarian and cultural collaboration will remain vital, with Cyprus’s experience in hosting refugees informing support for Ukraine’s displaced persons. Initiatives like the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference highlight opportunities for Cyprus to contribute to rebuilding schools, hospitals, and cultural sites. Expanding on past forums, such as the proposed International Economic Forum, could facilitate ongoing dialogue on legislative changes, tax incentives, and business networking to attract investments and professionals.
In the broader context, our partnership can extend to regional energy projects and international cooperation, as discussed in meetings with third parties like Qatar, where Ukraine and Cyprus align on global developments. We can intensify joint activities in new areas like AI in education and migration management.
In conclusion, the Ukraine-Cyprus partnership is rooted in shared challenges and aspirations. As we look to the future, our expanded cooperation in trade, technology, tourism, security, and EU integration promises mutual prosperity and resilience. Cyprus’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity strengthens our resolve to build a peaceful, integrated Europe. Together, we will turn challenges into opportunities, forging a brighter future for both our nations.
Slava Ukraїni!
Glory to Cyprus!