The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mrs. Seán Ó Ferghaíl and a delegation consisting of MPs Mr Brendan Howlin and Mr Ruairí Ó Murchú, in the framework of their official visit to Cyprus, following an invitation by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
In welcoming the Speaker and Members of the House of Commons of Ireland, the Speaker expressed regret that the start of the President's visit to Cyprus was marked by the news of the unexpected death of the Minister for Labour and Social Security. Zeta Aimylianidou, Ms Demetriou noted, was distinguished for her ethics, professionalism and diligence, always at the side of the most vulnerable people. Mr. Seán Ó Ferghaíl, on behalf of the delegation and the Irish Parliament, expressed sincere condolences to the Government, the House of Representatives and the Cypriot people on this sad event. The particular importance of this visit was noted, following the improved situation in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic, which, it was stressed, will give new impetus to further strengthening cooperation and exchanges between the parliaments of the two countries.
The Speaker expressed sincere thanks for Ireland's firm principled stand and support on the Cyprus problem and for its significant contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus since 1964. Unfortunately, the President noted, we have been experiencing for forty-eight years the consequences of Turkey's invasion and continued occupation of part of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus and we are witnessing increasing Turkish provocations, particularly in the enclosed area of Famagusta, in violation of the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. Our unwavering goal, the Speaker stressed, is to return to the talks towards achieving a just and viable solution that will reunite Cyprus in peace and security for the benefit of all the Cypriot people and especially our young people.
Mr Ó Ferghaíl assured Ms Demetriou that Ireland will continue to support efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions. At the same time, the President and Members of the Irish Parliament expressed their appreciation for Cyprus' support on the Brexit issue. Ireland, like Cyprus, Mr Ó Ferghaíl stressed, has experienced the drama of division and loss of life and therefore unity and peace on the island of Ireland must be protected.
Regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ms Demetriou and Mr Ó Ferghaíl stressed the need for the parties to return to the dialogue table as the only way to achieve peace. Ms Demetriou underlined the principled position of Cyprus on the issue of Ukraine, with particular reference to the drama of the Ukrainian refugees, while stressing the need for the international community to prepare for the effective management of the far-reaching consequences of the war. The paramount importance of unity and solidarity among the Member States of the European Union was also stressed.
The meeting also included an exchange of views on other issues of common interest, such as tackling climate change and encouraging the increased participation of women and young people in political life.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
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