Nicosia: The President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus, Annita Demetriou, and the Vice-President of the House of Representatives of Japan, Koichiro Gemba, held a significant meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. The meeting took place at the House of Representatives in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Demetriou welcomed Gemba with a tour of the legislative building, where the Japanese Vice-President signed the guest book, expressing his desire for enhanced bilateral relations. This meeting marked Gemba’s first official visit to Cyprus in his current role, and he emphasized the importance of collaboration, particularly with Cyprus’s upcoming Presidency of the EU Council in 2026.
Demetriou expressed her appreciation for Japan, noting the opening of the Cypriot Embassy in Japan as a pivotal moment in their relations. She highlighted Japan as a strategic partner and emphasized the potential for further collaboration, especially in light of shared values and maritime interests.
Gemba mentioned interest from Japanese companies in Cyprus, reflecting a mutual desire to bolster business relations. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to international law and support for resolving the Cyprus issue, aligning with UN Security Council Resolutions.
Discussions also touched on global concerns, including the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East. Demetriou reiterated the need for respect for international law and ending hostilities worldwide, promoting cooperation between allied nations like Cyprus and Japan.
Both officials conveyed hope for deeper interparliamentary exchanges and investment opportunities. Gemba acknowledged Cyprus as an important partner sharing common principles, and expressed intent to expand cooperation on both bilateral and multilateral fronts.
The meeting underscored the significance of mutual support, with Demetriou thanking Japan for its consistent backing on the Cyprus issue. The division of Cyprus since 1974 remains a critical concern, with ongoing efforts for resolution through UN-led peace talks.
Gemba concluded his visit by expressing gratitude for the warm Cypriot hospitality and reiterated his commitment to strengthening ties. Demetriou extended an open invitation for future visits to Cyprus, marking this meeting as a stepping stone towards a strengthened partnership.