Russia`s new Ambassador to Cyprus Stanislav V. Osadchiy has said that Moscow is closely following developments in Cyprus` economy, and expressed his country`s support to efforts for a just a viable solution of the island`s political problem.
Speaking during the presentation of his credentials to President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades, Osadchiy said Cyprus, one of the large international financial centres, has suffered a great blow from the global financial crisis, noting that it was important not to lose the longstanding Russia-Cyprus cooperation.
“This will help maintain the interest of Russian businesspeople in Cyprus,” he said and expressed hope that the prospects from Cyprus` hydrocarbons could give extra impetus.
Referring to the Cyprus problem, Osadchiy said “we support the Republic of Cyprus in the search for a just and viable solution of the Cyprus issue, based on relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” and expressed hope that talks between the two communities in Cyprus, expected to begin this year, would be successful.
Receiving the credentials, President Anastasiades referred to bilateral relations and expressed gratitude for Russian investments in Cyprus.
He pointed out that bilateral friendship was also reflected in the EU context, with Cyprus supporting and promoting the strategic relationship between the EU and Russia, adding that the abolition of visas between Russia and Cyprus was a priority.
Referring to the Cyprus problem, President Anastasiades said preparations were being made to launch talks in the Autumn, adding that the aim was to reach a just and mutually acceptable solution, and that Russia`s support was of great importance.
Furthermore, he expressed certainty that his visit to Russia in early 2014, at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin, would provide an excellent opportunity to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations, with emphasis on the economy, trade and tourism, and to exchange views on international and other issues in order to coordinate political cooperation.
Source: Famagusta Gazzette