Nicosia: France remains ready to contribute to a settlement in Cyprus aimed at a just and lasting solution for the island, for the benefit of all Cypriots, based on a federal model founded on the principle of political equality as set out in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, French Ambassador in Nicosia, Cl©lia Chevrier Kolacko, said on Tuesday evening.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in her speech during an event in Nicosia to celebrate Bastille Day, Ambassador Kolacko emphasized France's continuous support for ongoing dialogue between the parties in Cyprus, which should lead to the resumption of negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations. She highlighted Paris' support for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his Personal Envoy, Mara ngela Holgun, in their efforts to resolve the Cyprus Issue.
Representing the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Michael Damianos, expressed gratitude for France's principled and consistent support for Cyprus' sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. He emphasized the importance of France's steadfast commitment to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus Issue, aligning with UN Security Council Resolutions and European Union principles.
Minister Damianos noted that recent developments have demonstrated France's unwavering support for Cyprus, reinforcing the strength of their Strategic Partnership. He detailed that their bilateral relations have evolved into a multi-dimensional partnership encompassing foreign policy, defense, energy, education, and culture. The energy sector, in particular, has become a defining pillar of this cooperation, showcasing how Cyprus and France can advance both national and European strategic priorities.
The French Ambassador also highlighted the success of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, praising the collaboration and efforts of Cypriot authorities. She indicated that this period allowed for the development and deepening of bilateral relations and mutual understanding between the two nations.
In her concluding remarks, the French Ambassador expressed gratitude towards Cyprus for its support in combating wildfires in southern France. Meanwhile, Cyprus remains divided since 1974 due to Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third, with repeated UN-led peace talks failing to achieve results. Discussions are underway for a new meeting in a broader format as UN Secretary-General Guterres' term nears its end, and Mara ngela Holgun continues to engage the parties involved.