CYPRUS: Interim solution for British Bases status if Brexit goes bad

The status of the British Bases in Cyprus is in the balance as a no-deal Brexit looms, but Nicosia said contingency plans are being made for an interim solution to be applied in the worst case scenario.

After briefing the Cabinet on Brexit scenarios Thursday, Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides, said the future status of the British Bases in Cyprus was a priority item on the EU’s Brexit negotiations with the UK.

He said Nicosia is in constant contact with Brussels and depending on the results of the talks between the EU and the UK, Cyprus is ready to manage the situation, including a hard Brexit.

“In case, however, that there is a no-deal Brexit then the withdrawal agreement is considered to be void,” said Christodoulides.

He added that currently there is no bilateral agreement between Cyprus and Britain to fill the void of a disorderly Brexit.

Asked whether bilateral negotiations should take place in the case of a no-deal Brexit, he said that "if there is no withdrawal agreement, the EU and Britain will adopt a temporary settlement regarding vital areas of their relationship until a final agreement is reached”.

Christodoulides added that the issue of the British Bases is one of the vital areas which are to be included in this interim arrangement.

“A number of important issues have been selected by the EU and the Member States, and amongst these issues is the matter of the British Bases."

The Minister said he was encouraged by the stance of the other EU member states and appeared confident that Cyprus Republic citizens living and working within the British Bases will be unaffected if Brexit goes bad.

The Foreign Minister said Cyprus wishes for Brexit to take place within the framework of an agreement but added that the possibility of a no deal Brexit seems more plausible than ever and “member states should be prepared for such a scenario”.