Cyprus–Israel relations

Cyprus–Israel relations

Cyprus	Israel

Cyprus–Israel relations refer to the bilateral relations between Cyprus and Israel. Israel is represented in Cyprus through its embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus is represented in Israel through its embassy in Tel-Aviv, Israel. Both countries are full members of the Union for the Mediterranean.

History

The first interaction between the two nations precedes by many years their establishment as independent states. The first recorded meeting of the two peoples dates back to the 16th century when a few Jewish traders escaping the Spanish requisition had settled on the island.

The tents in the deportation Summer camps at Cyprus for Jews of Europe to escape the Holocaust.

A more modern encounter took place during the late 19th early 20th century, when attempts were made to establish Jewish agricultural communities on the island. The next chapter was opened in the late forties. Cyprus had become a transit point for many Jewish holocaust survivors, trying to reach the land of Israel. Those who were caught were held in camps in Cyprus. It was during this time (1946-49) that 53,000 Jews discovered the hospitality and the true friendship of the Cypriots during their detention by the British in camps on the island. During this time, Cypriots showed compassion and opened their hearts to the plight of the interns, helping and assisting as much as they could. Israel has always expressed its appreciation to the people of Cyprus and in particular, to people like Mr Prodromos Papavassiliou for their help and humanitarian assistance. This created bonds of friendship between the Jewish people and the people of Cyprus that laid the foundation for the good relations enjoyed today. Following the establishment of diplomatic relations, the institutional framework for the development of ties between both countries was laid. The relations and exchanges in various fields continued to increase.

The major upgrading of bilateral relations began in 1993. During the next years, a number of bilateral agreements were signed and many official visits have taken place including the official State visit by the President of Israel and a reciprocate visit by the President of Cyprus.

Modern Era

Chief Rabbi of Cyprus, Rabbi Arie Zeev Raskin meets the President of Cyprus Mr. Dimitris Christofias

Due to the recent tension of Israel with Turkey, there has been an improvement in Israel’s ties with Cyprus, something one senior diplomatic official said has been very helpful in dealing with the issue of boats setting sail for Gaza.

Natural Gas

Israeli energy firm Delek Group is seeking to work with Cyprus on natural gas exploration and extraction. Massive natural gas field has been discovered between the two countries and both cooporate to organise activities to exploit their natural resource.

See also

• International recognition of Israel