President Nikos Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus’s stance on managing migration amidst mounting humanitarian concerns. His remarks, made during an event in Nicosia, responded to criticisms from international bodies regarding the treatment of migrants stranded in the buffer zone.
Christodoulides addressed questions about whether the migrants were intentionally allowed into the buffer zone, stating that Cyprus has informed the United Nations and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) of its willingness to assist with any humanitarian issues concerning these individuals.
However, he emphasized Cyprus’s sovereignty in managing its migration policies, asserting, “Cyprus does not accept admonishments on migration management from anyone.” He criticized external pressures, stating that cooperation rather than public statements is essential to addressing migration challenges effectively.
The president highlighted Cyprus’s past efforts and competence in handling migration issues while expressing frustration with external commentary on the matter. He reiterated Cyprus’s firm stance against establishing new irregular migration routes and clarified that occasional migrant crossings through the buffer zone do not constitute such a route.
Recently, concerns were raised by Unficyp regarding the deteriorating humanitarian conditions within the buffer zone, where approximately 31 asylum seekers have set up camps. The UNHCR also voiced alarm over the migrants’ safety, citing difficulties in accessing asylum procedures imposed by the Cypriot government.
Despite international support providing essential supplies and facilities, reports indicate that migrants in the buffer zone endure precarious living conditions exacerbated by extreme temperatures exceeding 40°C.
President Christodoulides’s statements underscore Cyprus’s determination to manage migration autonomously while acknowledging and addressing humanitarian needs within its borders.