Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos visited San Marino on Wednesday, emphasizing the strong friendship between the two countries and celebrating 40 years of official relations. During his visit, Kombos and Sammarinese Foreign Minister Luca Beccari signed a memorandum of understanding focused on cooperation in higher education and research. They also welcomed progress toward San Marino’s possible association agreement with the European Union, which aims to enhance cooperation and integration.

Although negotiations for the association agreement concluded in 2023 and received European Commission approval in 2024, the deal remains unimplemented due to opposition from the Bulgarian government. The dispute centers on San Marino freezing €15 million linked to Bulgarian businessman Assen Christov following a failed acquisition attempt involving a local bank. A criminal investigation into alleged private corruption involving Christov is ongoing in San Marino.

Kombos highlighted that the developments create new opportunities for closer ties between San Marino and the EU, reflecting a commitment to strengthening regional partnerships despite current challenges.