Even though such an operation could pose staggering logistical problems for the tiny Mediterranean island, authorities in Nicosia are confident they can handle an influx of 10,000 foreign nationals a day so long as an equal number leave the island for another destination within two days.
One of the major fears expressed by the Cypriot Foreign Ministry is that these refugees will attempt to stay permanently in Cyprus. Recent figures, however, show that Syrian and Lebanese refugees have thus far opted to flee to countries on their borders such as Turkey and Jordan.
"As far as Cyprus is concerned, the country is ready," says Constandinos Tsindas, foreign affairs correspondent for Cyprus state television. He says while it is conceivable that Syrian refugee boats could head for Cyprus if the number of people forced to flee Syria continues to rise, most have so far opted to flee elsewhere.
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