New Cyprus president will pursue pro-Western policy

Significance

Christodoulides is taking charge at a time of high political volatility. Though he is from the ruling Democratic Rally (DISY), he was not DISY's candidate, won with the support of other parties and has appointed some of their picks to his cabinet. He is pro-NATO and hawkish on relations with Northern Cyprus and Turkey.

Impacts

• DISY’s new leadership may decide to join the newly elected government.
• Christodoulides will seek a more active EU involvement in negotiations on the Cyprus issue.
• A 3+1 meeting involving Cyprus, Greece, Israel and the United States may take place this year to discuss the deepening of defence ties.