Nicosia: President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, received the Australian High Commissioner, Fiona McKergow, to mark the conclusion of her term in Cyprus. They discussed pertinent issues, including the Cyprus issue, the upcoming Cyprus EU Presidency, and bilateral cooperation.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Demetriou expressed gratitude for the cooperation during McKergow's tenure. She acknowledged McKergow's contribution to promoting bilateral relations and Australian culture in Cyprus. Demetriou also appreciated Australia's steadfast support for resolving the Cyprus issue based on international law and UN Security Council Resolutions.
Demetriou expressed optimism for future negotiations under the UN framework to reunite Cyprus, which could enhance peace in the region. She mentioned that Cyprus's upcoming EU Council Presidency would further highlight its stabilizing role.
The Australian High Commissioner reiterated Australia's support for resolving the Cyprus problem in line with UN resolutions. McKergow commended Cyprus's strong regional relations and its strategic role as a security pillar.
They also discussed broader issues, focusing on democratic challenges such as extremism and hate speech, and emphasized defending human rights, especially for women, children, and vulnerable groups.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 due to Turkey's invasion, with UN-led peace talks repeatedly failing. Recent informal meetings have been held to address the issue, with further efforts expected from Mara Angela Holgun and Johannes Hahn in facilitating the settlement process.