Promoting Cyprus’ role ‘strengthens efforts for solution’

Promoting Cyprus’ geostrategic role as a pylon of stability and security in the region strengthens its own efforts for a viable and functional solution of the Cyprus problem, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Monday.

Addressing the opening of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (Ahepa) conference in Limassol, Christodoulides said overseas Hellenism contributed to the collective effort for a solution.

Christodoulides said the Ahepa conference was taking place for the first time in Cyprus, adding that this held deep symbolism, especially as it coincided with the 50th anniversary since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

The president referred to the invasion and its consequences, as well as the Turkish positions.

Despite the circumstances, “we continue our efforts to restart negotiations,” he said.

“We utilise the comparative geopolitical advantages of our country to promote the stability, security and welfare of all the countries of the broader region of the eastern Mediterranean,” he added.

Christodoulides said Cyprus was undertaking “initiatives aiming at offering solutions to issues of international interest.”

“With such initiatives, we prove in practice that we are not part of the problem, but part of the solution,” he added.