Cyprus is ready for the implementation of the Home Plan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Konstantinos Kombos said on Wednesday at KYPE, adding that all the foreseen actions have been taken in the event of the removal of citizens from Lebanon due to the situation in the Middle East.
At the same time, when asked to comment on yesterday's reactions to the occupied territories, he rejected the claims of the Turkish side, noting that the actions of the Cypriot Government are of a "humanitarian nature".
When asked if Canada has indeed concluded an agreement with Cyprus for the removal of its citizens from Lebanon, Mr. Kombos said that all the planned actions for the implementation of Hestia have been taken. "That is, for organized removals of citizens through the Republic of Cyprus and after their transfer to destination countries, in the context of the humanitarian assistance we offered in 2006 and 2023", he added.
Beds have already been placed in schools in Larnaca and sanitary facilities have been prepared to receive citizens in the event of an evacuation of Lebanon.
Asked about this, Mr. Kombos said that "all the necessary actions are being taken in terms of accommodation facilities and strengthening our ability to temporarily host until the departure to the countries of citizenship of persons".
At the same time, he said, "agreements/arrangements have been made with countries that cooperate in Hestia", noting that these "are necessary and were being made all this time".
We expect, he continued, "to see the developments and we will proceed accordingly".
Dr. Kombos also reported to KYPE that as part of regular coordination with competent agencies, the weekly meeting was held this morning under the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with co-competent agencies of the state.
When asked if we are ready at any time to implement Hestia, the Minister answered "yes".
Regarding the maximum number of people that Cyprus can accommodate, he answered "in 2006 it was 60.000. So we can welcome large numbers as long as they leave and don't stay for a long time."
Referring to yesterday's reactions in the occupied territories with the statements of the Turkish leader, Mr. Kombos said that the Turkish Cypriot side is disturbed and is trying to torpedo it. "We reject baseless allegations", said the Minister of Foreign Affairs, adding that the actions of the Cypriot Government are of a "humanitarian nature".
