Nicosia: The 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cyprus and China, together with five years of Strategic Partnership, opens new prospects for closer communication and coordination at the multilateral level, Chinese Ambassador to Cyprus, Yang Yundong, told a seminar on the Global Governance Initiative held on September 9.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the seminar was organised by the Chinese Embassy in cooperation with the Politeia Centre for Social and Political Thought. Yang highlighted that China and the Republic of Cyprus share similar positions on various international issues and both nations advocate for genuine multilateralism. Addressing the Cyprus problem, he emphasized China's readiness to play a constructive role and support a comprehensive, just, and lasting settlement based on UN resolutions and within the framework of a bizonal, bicommunal federation.
The Ambassador further elaborated on the Global Governance Initiative, launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 1, 2025. He stated that the initiative is grounded in sovereign equality, international law, multilateralism, a people-centred approach, and concrete action. He clarified that the initiative does not aim to replace the existing international order but seeks to enhance the representation and effectiveness of international institutions based on the UN Charter.
Politeia President and former Justice Minister Anna Koukkides-Procopiou also addressed the seminar, emphasizing the need for global governance to adapt to emerging challenges, including artificial intelligence and climate change. She acknowledged China's support for international law and UN Security Council resolutions on the Cyprus problem, as well as its contribution to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite repeated rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has remained elusive. The most recent negotiations, held in July 2017 at the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, ended inconclusively.
