President Isaac Herzog landed in Cyprus on Thursday morning, September 10, commencing a diplomatic state visit to the island nation. Herzog was officially welcomed at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, where the two leaders held a private diplomatic consultation followed by an expanded bilateral meeting.
1+During the discussions, the heads of state explored avenues to broaden strategic bilateral cooperation and reinforce existing ties between Israel and Cyprus.
During his remarks, Herzog shared an ambitious regional vision, expressing his wish for a day when the presidents of Israel, Cyprus, and Lebanon could convene together in Nicosia.
“I dream that one day we will be able to meet here—the President of Lebanon, the President of Cyprus, and the President of Israel,” Herzog said.
“I hope we will be able to realize such a dream, because I believe we must advance toward peace in our region, while ensuring that terrorism is rejected and cast out, allowing the nations and peoples of this region to flourish together for the well-being of our area and the entire world.”
1+President Christodoulides emphasized that their discussions centered on reinforcing the strategic partnership across multiple sectors, reviewing shifting regional dynamics, and exploring joint initiatives with like-minded regional allies to build long-term stability and security.
The Cypriot president also highlighted the thriving travel and economic links between the two countries, noting that a record-breaking volume of commercial flights from Israel arrived in Cyprus over the summer—surpassing 200 flights weekly, compared to a historical average of approximately 140 per week. Upon concluding his official meetings at the Presidential Palace, President Herzog was scheduled to return directly to Israel.