• May 26, 2025

Nicosia, May 3 – In a swift diplomatic move, Cyprus managed to secure important support from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in efforts to contain its ever-increasing water crisis. In the course of a lightning visit, Foreign Minister Constandinos Kombos signed the bilateral agreement with the UAE’s Assistant Minister for Development Affairs and International Organisations that will ensure the delivery of 10 mobile desalination units to the island nation.

The need for mobile desalination units was further intensified by an urgent appeal from Nicosia in view of increasingly harsh drought conditions and incredibly low dam water levels all across Cyprus. These mobile units, which are on loan from the UAE, are part of the reserve resources of the Gulf country. In a landmark decision, the UAE has said it will pay for shipping, while the Republic of Cyprus is taking full responsibility for installation, maintenance, and operation.

As per an official announcement made by the Cypriot Foreign Ministry, this advancement would instantaneously increase the country's water desalination capacity by 15,000 cubic metres per day. The mobile units are currently en route, expected to reach the island by the end of May or early June.

Once the necessary safety and technical installation processes are completed by the relevant authorities, the units will be activated without delay. Their activation is expected to bring timely relief to communities that are having a torrid time due to extended dry spells.

The Ministry stressed its immense appreciation to the UAE for availing this assistance immediately,... "This response is an embodiment of the strong and growing strategic partnership between Cyprus and the UAE. It reflects a mutual commitment for pragmatic cooperation that directly impacts the lives of our citizens," the statement further read. 

Challenges seemed endless to Cyprus from the wrath of climate; that is why this collaborative undertaking enhances international solidarity, as well as promptness in coming forward at times when the environment is in crisis.