President to discuss spike in migrants with EU chief, visit Lebanon
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides will discuss with the head of the European Commission an unprecedented surge in mainly Syrian refugees arriving on the island. Over 800 arrivals have been counted since March 31, with more arriving every day. Cyprus is lobbying for increased assistance to Lebanon, the starting point for most irregular crossings, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The president will visit Lebanon to address the difficult situation and offer technical assistance to contain migrant outflows. Cyprus also wants the EU to declare some parts of Syria safe to facilitate returns under strict conditions.