The Cypriot president unequivocally condemned the annexation of Ukrainian territories by Russia
Meeting with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Souzawho is making the first official visit of a Portuguese President to Cyprus, had today at the Presidential Palace, in Nicosia, the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Anastasiadis.
After the conclusion of their meeting and the extended talks that followed, President Anastasiades said, among other things, that the official visit of President de Souza is a milestone in the relations between the two countries, since it is the first that a President of Portugal has made to the Republic of Cyprus and reflects the common will for new dynamics in relations both bilaterally and at the European and international level.
He added that during their talks they discussed issues related to bilateral relations and strengthening the cooperation of the two countries in areas such as investments, education, economy and tourism.
In this direction, he said, it was agreed to take specific measures that will upgrade the cooperation between the respective tourism organizations and the private sector, so that there will be direct flights between the two countries.
He added that the signing of the Agreement between the two countries is proof of the will to strengthen bilateral relations, while he noted that issues related to the green transition, the energy security of Europe and the current financial situation.
He also said that the med9 group within the EU can play an important role for the future and promote common interests.
He added that during the enlarged meetings, they also discussed the issue of the energy autonomy and security of the member states, noting that Cyprus can be part of the energy solutions that the Eastern Mediterranean region has to offer with specific projects, such as East Mediterranean Gas Forum and EuroAsia and EuroAfrica Interconnectors.
Referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the international condemnation, the President of the Republic said that Cyprus also unequivocally condemns the recent illegal annexation of four Ukrainian regions to Russia. He also pointed out that Cyprus is also suffering from the Turkish invasion and occupation, noting that just as the international community reacted collectively and decisively to the injustice and the violation of Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity, we expect our partners to show the same determination and unity in application of international law regarding the Cyprus issue and the safeguarding of our sovereign rights. He also referred to Turkey’s illegal claims for two states in Cyprus that undermine the prospect of resuming dialogue for a solution to the Cyprus issue.
Finally, President Anastasiades assured that he will continue the efforts and the undertaking of initiatives such as with proposals for confidence-building measures with the aim of restarting the process.
From the side of President of Portugal he said, among other things, that the two countries are united by close ties of friendship, but also common positions and experiences, while he referred to the imposing personality of the patriarch Makarios III. He also praised the successful work of President Anastasiades in the Presidency of the Republic.
He also said that Cyprus means History and is a crossroads of cultures.
He added that there are various areas in which bilateral cooperation can be strengthened, such as education, technology, energy and tourism.
He also praised the level of political and diplomatic relations between Cyprus and Portugal, highlighting the excellent cooperation at the EU level.
He also referred to Immigration, a problem faced by both countries, as well as the Ukrainian one, condemning the invasion and the violation of international law.
Referring to the Cyprus issue, the President of Portugal said that the entire international community recognizes the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state, noting that his country supports the efforts of the UN Secretary General.
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