Nicosia: Over the years, relations between Cyprus and Slovakia have matured into a broad and substantive partnership, the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, said on Wednesday during the presentation of credentials by the new Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to Cyprus, Miroslav Radacovsk½, at the Presidential Palace, in Nicosia.

According to Cyprus News Agency, President Christodoulides emphasized the longstanding relationship between Cyprus and Slovakia, which is founded on friendship, mutual respect, and a commitment to international law, multilateral cooperation, and the values of the European Union (EU). He expressed his intention to work closely with the new ambassador to deepen these promising ties.

The President welcomed the growing economic and business dimensions of the relationship, highlighting the potential for collaboration in investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He cited the Doers Summit in Limassol as an example of how business and innovation ecosystems can bridge gaps between entrepreneurs, researchers, and young professionals from both countries.

President Christodoulides also noted the flourishing people-to-people ties, facilitated by increased tourism and direct air connectivity between Larnaka and Bratislava. He highlighted the significance of cooperation in security, crisis management, and humanitarian assistance, acknowledging Cyprus' role as a regional hub for evacuation and repatriation operations.

He praised Slovakia's solidarity and contribution to joint efforts like the Argonaut exercise and the Amalthea Initiative, underscoring the trust that underpins their relations. Addressing the Cyprus issue, he welcomed the momentum under UN auspices and reaffirmed Cyprus' commitment to a comprehensive settlement, appreciating Slovakia's role in promoting dialogue and peacekeeping in Cyprus.

In response, Ambassador Radacovsk½ recognized the unique forms of cooperation that have developed between Slovakia and Cyprus over the decades. He stressed the shared commitment to international law, democracy, and multilateral cooperation, and congratulated Cyprus on its EU Council Presidency.

The Ambassador highlighted Slovakia's long-standing support for bicommunal dialogue facilitated by Slovakia for 37 years and expressed hope for favorable conditions for a lasting Cyprus settlement. He acknowledged the contributions of Slovak peacekeepers to stability on the island.

Radacovsk½ emphasized the expansion of bilateral relations beyond politics into innovation, culture, and tourism, and expressed his determination to strengthen these connections during his mission. He praised the Doers Summit as a prime example of cooperation and potential for further strengthening ties between innovators and entrepreneurs.

Highlighting crisis management cooperation, Radacovsk½ acknowledged Cyprus' role as a strategic hub for evacuation and humanitarian assistance. He expressed his commitment to enhancing people-to-people contacts, noting the significant Slovak presence in Cyprus and their role in fostering mutual understanding.

Finally, the Ambassador pledged to spare no effort in strengthening relations and exploring new cooperation opportunities for the benefit of citizens from both nations.