The Speaker of the House of Representatives Mrs. Jan Skoda, the Ambassador of Poland Ms Irena Lichnerowicz Augustyn, the Ambassador of Bulgaria Mr Lyobomir T. Todorov, the Ambassador of the Czech Republic Mr Vladimir Němec, the Chargé d'Affaires of Romania Mr Ion Mihai Stirbu and the Chargé d'Affaires of Hungary Ms Krisztina Lakos.
During the meeting, which was held at the initiative of the Polish Ambassador, the consequences of the war in Ukraine were discussed, with particular reference to the humanitarian aspect and the management by the six countries of the increasing flows of refugees from Ukraine.
The President noted the relevant resolution adopted unanimously by Parliament, reaffirming Cyprus' commitment to the principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Expressing her full solidarity with the drama of the Ukrainian refugees, Mrs Demetriou pointed out that Cyprus knows the suffering of refugees, having experienced for forty-eight years the consequences of the Turkish invasion and continued occupation of part of its territory by Turkey.
Particular concern was expressed about the upcoming second wave of refugees and its proper management. The Speaker of the Parliament stressed the need to demonstrate more collectivity among European Union (EU) member states and the readiness of Cyprus to contribute to the redistribution of refugee flows, to the extent of its capabilities. Ms Demetriou also noted the immediate response of Cypriot citizens to the collection of humanitarian aid, which has already been sent to the suffering Ukrainian people.
The present members of the Diplomatic Corps referred to their countries' political declaration in favour of Ukraine's request for EU membership, as well as to the individual reception and hosting conditions that their countries provide to refugees, noting the solidarity and very good coordination between them.
Finally, the common will to take joint initiatives and actions to address the challenges arising from the crisis in Ukraine, in particular in the areas of temporary accommodation, employment and education, was underlined.
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