Nicosia: The need to further deepen the strategic cooperation between Nicosia and Beijing was discussed during the visit of a delegation of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Trade, Industry, and Tourism to China, according to an announcement by the House of Representatives.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the delegation of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Trade, Industry, and Tourism-headed by Dr. Kyriakos Hadjiyianni and members Averof Neofytou, Kostas Kosta, and Michalis Yiacoumi-visited China between January 3 and 11, following an invitation by the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Cyprus, Liu Yantao.
During their visit, the Cypriot delegation held a series of important meetings in Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Suzhou. The meetings emphasized the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries and the need to further deepen strategic cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including tourism, trade, shipping, energy, technology, and education.
The Cypriot delegation met with senior officials of the Ministry of Commerce and the China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce, and Animal By-Products. They also had discussions with Lu Xinshe, Chairman of the Committee on Environmental Protection and Resources Conservation of the National People's Congress, and with Vice Chairmen of the Standing Committees of the National People's Congress of Jiangsu Province, Zhou Guangzhi, of Suzhou Province, Houang Jing, and of Shanghai Province, Zong Ming.
During these meetings, the excellent diplomatic and friendly relations between the two countries were highlighted, along with the need to strengthen tourism flows from China to Cyprus, promote cooperation in higher education, integrate Chinese students into the domestic labor market, leverage investment opportunities in technology parks, and develop cooperation in the shipping sector.
China reaffirmed its firm support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, while Cyprus reiterated its long-standing commitment to principled positions, particularly the 'One China' policy.
While in China, the MPs visited enterprises, technological innovation facilities, and places of historic, cultural, and educational interest.