Nicosia: As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China will persist in advocating for a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution to the Cyprus issue, the new Chinese Ambassador to Nicosia, Yang Yundong, stated on Tuesday. The ambassador emphasized China's steadfast support for Cyprus in maintaining its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to Cyprus News Agency, during the presentation of his credentials to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, Ambassador Yang highlighted Cyprus' impactful Presidency of the Council of the European Union earlier this year, noting its enhancement of the country's global stature. In response, President Christodoulides expressed gratitude for China's unwavering stance on the Cyprus Question and its enduring support for the sovereignty and unity of Cyprus, aligning with UN Security Council Resolutions.
President Christodoulides stressed ongoing endeavors under the UN Secretary-General's leadership to foster conditions for renewed negotiations. He affirmed Cyprus' dedication to a durable settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, as prescribed by Security Council Resolutions and European Union principles. He conveyed reliance on China's continuous support for this objective, underscoring the deep-rooted friendship and mutual respect shared by the two nations.
Highlighting the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the five-year milestone of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, President Christodoulides remarked on the relationship's depth and maturity. He welcomed China's visa-free access to Cypriot citizens, facilitating closer connections and exchanges.
Looking forward, the President expressed optimism about advancing bilateral initiatives, including finalizing agreements on Double Taxation, Air Services, and agricultural export protocols, as well as reactivating the Joint Economic Committee. These efforts, he noted, would invigorate economic partnerships and unlock new opportunities for cooperation.
In his address, Ambassador Yang acknowledged Cyprus' sustained economic growth and increased international influence, particularly following its EU Council Presidency. He reiterated China's commitment to supporting Cyprus' sovereignty and territorial integrity and expressed a desire to strengthen bilateral ties, building on fruitful collaborations in various sectors since the 2019 Belt and Road cooperation agreement.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Yang emphasized the cherished relations between China and Cyprus, expressing readiness to collaborate on enhancing their strategic partnership.