Cypriot Ambassador Praises Jordan’s Hospitality, Says King’s UN Address Carries Universal Truths

Jordan played host to a reception on Monday evening marking the 66th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus, an event that saw the Cypriot ambassador to the kingdom praise the depth of bilateral relations and the hospitality of Amman.

Speaking at the gathering, which was attended by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Nancy Namrouqa, members of the diplomatic corps and other officials and guests, Ambassador Sifak Avedisian described the Jordanian capital as beautiful, unique and welcoming. He said the excellent ties between the two countries at multiple levels lent the occasion special significance.

Global Relevance of King’s Address

Avedisian noted that Cyprus was marking its independence amid turbulent regional and international circumstances that, in his assessment, had not improved since October 2025 and had actually deteriorated further. He described the current era as “highly ironic times,” where military power and the unlawful use of force shape events and outcomes, in direct contradiction with the fundamental principles of international law and the United Nations Charter.

The ambassador stressed that the international community’s response to such violations should be unified and non-selective. “We cannot condemn one act of aggression while turning a blind eye to another,” he said, emphasising the need to apply international law equally to all without double standards.

Referring to the opening of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York several weeks ago, Avedisian highlighted the address delivered by King Abdullah II during the general debate. He said the King’s speech contained key messages and frank assessments whose significance extended beyond the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank to issues affecting the entire world.

The ambassador stated that the messages in the King’s speech “apply to all situations; they are universal truths valid everywhere.” He cited the King’s assertion that “military power cannot deliver meaningful solutions” and that “some matters require immediate attention, others require sustained attention, while injustice requires both.”

Avedisian also noted the King’s warning about the need to describe events as they truly are, cautioning that “softening the language normalizes the actions.” He said this underscored the danger of using terminology that downplays the reality of violations and contributes to treating them as normal or acceptable.

The ambassador recalled the King’s question: “If international law can be ignored for decades, what value does it have?” He stressed the importance of adhering to its principles and avoiding selective application, adding that questions about the value of international law become increasingly urgent when it is ignored for decades.

Cyprus’s Ongoing Division and Solidarity with Palestinians

Regarding Cyprus itself, Avedisian said the 66th anniversary of independence should not obscure the fact that his country has remained divided since 1974 as a result of what he described as an illegal foreign military occupation. He explained that Cyprus, a small island in the Mediterranean, has spent 52 of the 66 years since the establishment of its republic living with division.

The ambassador said the Cypriot experience enables Cypriots to understand the plight of the Palestinian people. “We too know and feel the pain of profound loss,” he stated. He added that “time does not heal wounds, and unfortunately, time is not on our side,” referring to the continuing humanitarian and political suffering caused by the unresolved situation.

He stressed that his country’s hope and objective are to reach a viable solution based on relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, ensuring the reunification of the island and the complete and permanent withdrawal of foreign occupying forces. The desired solution, he said, should end the division of Cyprus, bringing an end to the status of Nicosia, the country’s capital, as Europe’s last divided capital, and allowing the island to overcome the continuing consequences of the crisis it has faced since 1974.

Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Risks

Despite the challenges addressed in his speech, the ambassador said the occasion remained an opportunity to celebrate the independence of the Republic of Cyprus. He expressed appreciation to Amman for hosting the event, describing it as a beautiful, unique and hospitable city, and noting that the excellent relations between Cyprus and Jordan at various levels give the celebration a special dimension.

Before concluding, Avedisian turned to artificial intelligence, which he said has become an increasingly significant part of daily life. He noted that AI was among the key issues discussed in New York during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly last month, where world leaders and technology executives warned of associated risks.

He explained that artificial intelligence can, and already does, serve as a powerful tool for accelerating human progress. At the same time, however, it poses significant risks and challenges, requiring effective oversight and regulation to address those challenges and reduce the risks associated with its use.

In a lighthearted remark, the ambassador said his wife, Christine, had prepared the video segment accompanying this part of his speech. Although she wore traditional Cypriot attire during the reception, he noted that she has strong technical skills and extensive knowledge of artificial intelligence.

At the conclusion of his remarks, the ambassador thanked members of the Cypriot Embassy team, commending their assistance and support in organizing the celebration. He invited guests to enjoy the cultural program prepared for the occasion and expressed his appreciation for their attention before the artistic performances showcasing aspects of Cypriot culture and heritage.