Astana: The official visit to Kazakhstan is an indication of the recognition of the Republic of Cyprus' enhanced role, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday. This week's official visit to Kazakhstan was deemed 'important', President Christodoulides stated, following his attendance at a memorial service in the community of Emba, in Paphos. He was responding to queries regarding the Republic of Cyprus' outreach to Central Asia. He highlighted that his official visit to Astana signified the recognition of the upgraded role of Cyprus and its foreign policy efforts, which are yielding specific positive outcomes.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized that the foreign policy initiatives are directly linked to domestic developments. He noted the significance of having traveled to Astana on the first direct flight between Cyprus and Kazakhstan, underlining its importance for boosting tourism and encouraging investment. He was accompanied by a strong business delegation during the visit.
The President reported that several meetings occurred and there is notable interest from Kazakhstan. He described a comprehensive plan and strategy that aligns both domestic and foreign policies, which are closely interconnected. He expressed satisfaction with the positive response and the recognition of Cyprus and its international standing.
President Christodoulides highlighted that this was the first visit by a President of the Republic of Cyprus to a country within what he referred to as 'the Turkic region'. During the visit, he was honored by a decision of the President of Kazakhstan, an accolade he accepted on behalf of the Cypriot people, with intentions to continue strengthening these relations.
He also mentioned his visit to India last May and indicated that further visits are planned. These efforts aim to enhance the standing of the Republic of Cyprus, support key domestic initiatives, and simultaneously fortify its negotiating position concerning the resolution of the Cyprus issue.