Proposals, which could form the basis for undertaking an initiative for the Cyprus issue, were presented by President of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, during a working meeting he held on Thursday, in Paris, with French President Emmanuel Macron.
According to a press release by the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus, President Anastasiades informed President Macron about the latest developments in the Cyprus issue, thanking him for Frances’ firm position of principles in favor of a comprehensive solution of a bizonal bicommunal federation, as defined by the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and a solution that should ensure the full implementation of the European acquis and the values of the European Union, as well as human rights.
He also expressed deep gratitude for his valuable support whenever Cyprus-related issues are discussed at the United Nations, the European Union, or in EUMED 9, and in other fora.
It is added that in the light of the rapidly changing geopolitical environment following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, President Anastasiades conveyed to President Macron his strong concern that, as long as the Cyprus problem remains unresolved, it will continue to be a threat to peace and security, not only in the fragile region of the Eastern Mediterranean, but also in Europe in general.
It is added that President Anastasiades “submitted some proposals to President Macron which would be able to help, on the one hand, in the de-escalation and in general the avoidance of tensions or the creation of new faits accomplis on land or at sea and, on the other hand, in the creation, through appropriate preparation, of those necessary conditions for the resumption of a fruitful dialogue for the settlement of the Cyprus issue, always under the auspices of the United Nations.
“The proposals in question, which could form the basis for taking an initiative, provide in the first stage for a more active and in good faith involvement of partners who have a role to play in the Cyprus issue, including of course France, always in consultation with the United Nations” the press release says.
“And of course”, it is added, “as soon as conditions allow, there could be the active involvement of the European Union, with the aim of assisting all those involved in the effort to find a functional and sustainable solution that will benefit all Cypriot citizens, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Besides, Cyprus is a Member State of the European Union and the solution of the Cyprus problem is also a European matter.”
During the meeting, President Anastasiades assured President Macron that until the last day of his term in office as President of the Republic of Cyprus, he will continue to work for the peaceful resolution of the Cyprus problem, in accordance with International Law.
He also conveyed to the French President his warm thanks and his sincere appreciation for the excellent cooperation “but also a close friendship that contributed to the further strengthening of relations between Cyprus and France, both at the bilateral level in an ever-expanding range of areas of common interest and within the common European family.”
Furthermore, the two Presidents analyzed the dynamics and strategic depth of the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.
“Within this framework, special reference is made on the prospects in the Defence and Security, Education, as well as Energy sectors” the Presidency says.
President Anastasiades reiterated that France is one of the most important partners of the Republic of Cyprus, a strategic partner, contributing the most to Cyprus’ efforts to create conditions of security, peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
They also discussed the current challenges in relation to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The President was briefed by Macron on the latest dramatic developments, as well as on any prospects for ending the hostilities. It is noted finally that the French President since the beginning had actively undertaken and continues to undertake very important initiatives with the aim of reaching a peace agreement.
Source: Cyprus News Agency