Nicosia: Cyprus is considered a reliable partner for Canada in a challenging geopolitical region, as stated by Sonya Thissen, the new High Commissioner of Canada to Cyprus, based in Athens. During a meeting with Annita Demetriou, the President of the House of Representatives, the two officials discussed the strong relations between Cyprus and Canada and expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the meeting also highlighted plans to strengthen ties between the European Union and Canada, particularly during Cyprus's EU Council Presidency in the first half of the year. House President Demetriou emphasized the importance of reinforcing partnerships with friendly nations like Canada, especially given the current fragile international climate.
Demetriou noted that Cyprus, having faced the consequences of the Turkish invasion and ongoing occupation for over five decades, aims to serve as a pillar of security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. She stressed that resolving the Cyprus issue in accordance with international law and UN resolutions could be pivotal in achieving peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
The House President expressed gratitude to High Commissioner Thissen for Canada's steadfast support in seeking a solution to the Cyprus problem and its longstanding contribution to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP). Thissen, in turn, reiterated Cyprus's role as a reliable partner for Canada and acknowledged the assistance provided by Cyprus during emergencies, particularly in evacuating Canadian citizens from conflict areas.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern part. Despite numerous UN-led peace talks, a resolution remains elusive due to ongoing Turkish intransigence, with the last significant negotiations in Crans-Montana in July 2017 ending without agreement.