Politis

Cyprus and Greece to Establish Permanent Joint Committee

Published January 13, 2026, 14:23
Cyprus and Greece to Establish Permanent Joint Committee

The Ministers of Justice of Cyprus and Greece, Kostas Fytiris and Giorgos Floridis, have decided to establish a permanent joint committee to systematically monitor pending issues, make decisions, and effectively implement agreed-upon measures between the two countries. During their meeting in Athens, the two ministers exchanged views on matters within their jurisdiction, while Mr. Floridis informed his Cypriot counterpart about the reforms in the Greek justice system and the faster administration of justice achieved. Furthermore, the possibility of concluding a comprehensive memorandum of cooperation between Cyprus and Greece was discussed, focusing on the monitoring of maritime zones, the fight against smuggling and drug trafficking, the prevention of organized crime, and the exchange of information. Particular emphasis was placed on the creation of a Cypriot Coast Guard and the utilization of the experience of the Hellenic Coast Guard – Cypriot Coast Guard for the training of Cypriot personnel. In separate meetings, Mr. Fytiris met with the Greek Minister of Shipping, Vassilis Kikilias, the Minister of Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, and the Minister of Social Cohesion and Family, Domna Michailidou. With Mr. Chrysochoidis, they discussed common goals and challenges in the field of security, such as illegal immigration and the fight against organized crime, as well as the importance of cooperation through European and international organizations. It was agreed to hold regular meetings of the joint committee every six months and to allocate positions at the Hellenic Police Officers' Academy to members of the Cypriot Police, with the aim of strengthening training and interoperability. Mr. Fytiris informed about the reorganization of the Cypriot Police and the creation of a Directorate for Combating Organized Crime, while Mr. Chrysochoidis expressed Greece's support for Cyprus, offering guidance and expertise.