Cypriot Foreign Minister visits Japan to strengthen bilateral ties

Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos departed for Japan on October 3, 2026, for a high-level official visit aimed at deepening bilateral relations between Nicosia and Tokyo. The agenda included meetings with Japanese officials, business representatives, and members of the Cypriot diaspora, as well as a visit to Waseda University.

On October 5, Minister Kombos held a 50-minute meeting with his Japanese counterpart, Toshimitsu Motegi. Minister Motegi described Cyprus as an important partner that shares fundamental values, specifically thanking the Cypriot government for its assistance in evacuating Japanese citizens from Lebanon in 2024. The discussions highlighted the common maritime nature of both nations, with Motegi expressing interest in closer cooperation regarding the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy. Minister Kombos reaffirmed Cyprus's commitment to international law and multilateral collaboration.

Additional meetings were scheduled with Seiichiro Murakami, President of the Cyprus-Japan Parliamentary Friendship League. This diplomatic mission marks a strategic effort to enhance political and economic dialogue, with a focus on maritime and technological cooperation.