Cyprus is standing by Lebanon and vice versa, pledged the ministers of Defence, Agriculture and Justice, during a gathering in Larnaca to thank the neighbouring country's assistance in airborne means during the fires last week in Limassol district. The ceremony was held at the Joint Rescue Coordination Center organized by the Defence Ministry and in the presence of the ministers of Defence, Justice and Public Order and Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment. In his remarks, Defence Minister Michalis Giorgallas said that "through difficult moments and operations, Cyprus's relationships with its neighbours are strengthened. This was also the case with the fire in Limassol, and the response of the Lebanese Government to assist the Cypriot Republic further enhanced the relationship between our countries". He added that "in the same way, when Lebanon needs it, Cyprus will stand by Lebanon and its people". Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Petros Xenofontos, stated that "the presence of friends from Lebanon was certainly very significant, as it reinforced the aerial resources in combating the recent fire. We thank them and wish them a safe journey back to their country.' Minister of Justice and Public Order, Anna Koukkides-Procopiou, noted that "we are here to thank the crews from Lebanon, the team of pilots and technicians. I believe that it is very important to strengthen the bonds of friendship with our neighbours, and this ceremony demonstrates both the usefulness of good neighborly relations and helps us deepen and expand them even further." Attache of the Lebanese Embassy in Nicosia, Queen Maryl Salame Ghayadi referred to the continuous co-operation between Cyprus and Lebanon, and said that now there was cooperation concerning the fire fighting. She said 'I am very proud of the Lebanese army who did this mission over here' and added that 'Lebanon is always next to Cyprus as Cyprus is always next to Lebanon'.
Source: Cyprus News Agency