Dar es Salaam, July 10, 2025 – Dr. Constantinos Kombos, Cyprus Minister for Foreign Affairs, concluded a historic three-day visit to Tanzania from July 8-10, representing the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas.
Marking the first visit by a Cypriot foreign minister to Tanzania, Hon. Kombos praised Tanzania as a vital EU partner, emphasizing its role as a stable and strategic ally in East Africa.
In high-level talks with his counterpart Hon. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Dr. Kombos highlighted Tanzania’s importance, that, “We see Tanzania as an important strategic partner, a stable and peaceful country with significant economic and population growth, and in a region that is facing many challenges, Tanzania can be a strategic outpost in our foreign policy.” He underscored the EU’s commitment to deepening its well-established partnership with Tanzania, aiming to “enlarge and deepen” ties based on shared values and common interests.
Dr. Kombos outlined key areas for enhanced cooperation, including energy, infrastructure, and critical raw materials through the EU’s Global Gateway initiative. He noted, “Tanzania is the largest beneficiary of European Investment Bank loans in Sub-Saharan Africa,” signaling robust economic collaboration.
Discussions also covered regional security, trade, investment, and domestic political developments, particularly Tanzania’s upcoming 2025 general elections. Hon. Kombos appreciated Tanzanian government level of preparedness through an Independent National Election Commission stressing the EU’s support for a “credible and transparent electoral process,” which he described as crucial to consolidate a vibrant and healthy democracy. The two leaders agree that these will unlock Tanzania’s business, trade, and investment potential to achieve long-term development goals.
During this unprecedented visit, the two ministers who also happen to have uniquely similar names, Kombo and Kombos; signed two memoranda of understanding. They cover political consultations and mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates, marking a milestone in Cyprus-Tanzania relations.
Concluding the high level talks with a high note, Hon. Kombos thanked Tanzania for the best hospitality and its consistent support on the Cyprus issue. He further reaffirmed the EU’s intent to step up engagement with Tanzania.
This timely visit comes a week after Tanzania’s Foreign Minister meeting with the EU Delegation accredited to Tanzania. The meeting which was organized by the Tanzania Foreign Ministry, created a platform for open dialogue and engagement between the EU and Tanzania on myriad issues fostering deep relations.
Commenting about Dr. Kombos’s visit, the EU Ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community, Christine Grau, stated
“This visit underscores the EU’s commitment to a mature and strategic partnership with Tanzania, based on mutual interests. Following the visit of Foreign Minister Kombo to EU Headquarters in April, this visit is a reflection on the continuous strong engagement of the European Union with Tanzania.”
Hon. Kombos’ visit reinforces Tanzania’s strategic role as a reliable partner in a the region, with both sides committed to advancing their partnership for the betterment and prosperity of the people.
