Cyprus PIO: News Update in English, 01-10-16

Cyprus Press and Information Office: News Updates in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at <http://www.pio.gov.cy/>

Tuesday, 16 October 2001

CONTENTS

• [01] Presentation of Credentials
• [02] Portugal supporting Cyprus' accession to the EU

[01] Presentation of Credentials

Presenting his credentials Mr Stefanov said, inter alia: «Bulgaria and Cyprus have identical priorities for joining the European Union. The progress of Cyprus in this direction is impressive. We believe that your impending integration will contribute to achieve a break-through in finding a solution to the Cyprus problem with respect for the interests of the two communities on the island and in compliance with the UN resolutions, and I am fully aware that my assignment here is at a time of great significance for the future of the people of Cyprus. It is then my privilege to inform Your Excellency that the Bulgarian Government highly appreciates the proposal of the Cypriot Government for co-operation in the EU membership issue.

The Bulgarian-Cypriot relations of co-operation in every other field follow a line of steady development for more than 40 years. Now Cyprus is the third biggest foreign investor in Bulgaria with more than 260 million USD. Tourism marks a significant growth, good opportunities for increasing the trade in both directions exist, and the number of joint ventures is rising".

Repyling the President of the Republic of Cyprus stated, inter alia:

"A strong bond of friendship has developed since 1960, the time when Cyprus acquired its independence, between our two countries and peoples, which continues to this day. Our countries are linked together by their common commitment to the principles and ideals enshrined in the United Nations Charter and have chosen the same political orientation aiming to become members of the European Union.

The world is now facing a new and tremendous challenge after the brutal and savage terrorist attacks of 11th September against American civilians. This crime has endangered world security and has put into jeopardy global peace, stability and peaceful co-existence.

Peace, security and stability in the world at large can only be achieved through the consistent efforts of all of us in combating terrorism, but also by strong adherence to international law and the respect of human rights. A just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem has always been the first and foremost priority of our foreign policy. Despite the active involvement of the international community and the goodwill demonstrated by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, the problem is still unresolved due to the Turkish intransigence and outright disrespect of United Nations resolutions.

We hope that the international community will exert all its influence on the Turkish side to come to the negotiating table with goodwill so as to pave the way for a peaceful solution to the Cyprus problem, based on the relevant United Nations Resolutions, the two High Level Agreements of 1977 and 1979, the respect of human rights for all Cypriots and of course the acquis communautaire of the European Union".

[02] Portugal supporting Cyprus' accession to the EU

The Portuguese official expressed his unreserved support in Cyprus' accession to the EU and stated that Cyprus fulfils the criteria to accede the Union the soonest possible.

Mr Costa praised the constructive approach held by the government of the Republic of Cyprus in the efforts to solve the Cyprus problem.

From the Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office (PIO) Server at http://www.pio.gov.cy/

Cyprus Press and Information Office: News Updates in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article