Cyprus’ new High Commissioner to Australia, Haralambos Kafkarides, has formally presented his credentials to Governor-General Sam Mostyn, with both sides highlighting the close ties between the two countries and the contribution of the Cypriot Australian community.
The ceremony took place at Government House in Canberra on October 20, 2026, where Kafkarides presented his Letters of Credence to Mostyn, formally assuming his diplomatic role.
Mostyn welcomed the High Commissioner and praised the Cypriot diaspora’s contribution to Australia’s development as a multicultural nation, highlighting its longstanding economic and social impact.
She noted that the Cypriot community had played an important role in shaping Australian society over several decades.
Australia’s longstanding role in Cyprus
The Governor-General also highlighted Australia’s contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), particularly through Australian police personnel.
She described the mission as Australia’s longest-running United Nations peacekeeping deployment, noting its contribution to peace and stability on the island.
Australia has supported UNFICYP for more than five decades, a commitment acknowledged by Kafkarides during the ceremony.
The High Commissioner thanked Australia for its continued support for a just, viable and comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem that would lead to the island’s reunification.
Cyprus and Australia look to strengthen ties
Kafkarides highlighted the strong relationship between Cyprus and Australia, as well as their cooperation in international organisations, particularly the Commonwealth of Nations.
Mostyn also congratulated the Cypriot government on its recent Presidency of the Council of the European Union, describing Cyprus as an important link in strengthening relations between Australia and the EU.
The discussions underscored the potential for further cooperation between the two countries across diplomatic and international forums.
Cypriot community numbers more than 80,000
Kafkarides highlighted the estimated 80,000-strong Cypriot community across Australia, describing its contribution to Australian society as significant.
He also emphasised that preserving and promoting Cypriot traditions, heritage and culture would be a priority during his tenure.
The High Commissioner said initiatives supporting the community’s cultural identity would help ensure Cypriot heritage continues to thrive within Australia’s multicultural society.
The ceremony was attended by Dr Fiona Webster, Deputy Secretary responsible for International Security, Legal and Consular Affairs, Chief of Protocol Jonathan Muir and other Australian officials.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus and the High Commission of Cyprus in Canberra.