The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mrs Anita Demetriou, met today with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Mr Xavier Bettel, during his official visit to Cyprus.
During the meeting, the very good level of relations between Cyprus and Luxembourg was noted, based on common principles and values and mutual trust. The President stressed that the stability of relations between friendly countries becomes even more important in times of increased uncertainty, such as the current one.
Special reference was made to the current challenges facing the European Union (EU) and in particular the migration issue, which, it was stressed, should be managed on the basis of solidarity. It was further stressed that refugees should be treated equally, with respect for human dignity, regardless of their country of origin.
Referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ms Demetriou stressed that Cyprus, which is still experiencing the consequences of the invasion and occupation of part of its territory by Turkey, remains committed to the principles of international law and stands by the side of the suffering Ukrainian people. He also noted that the EU and its Member States must collectively and unitedly address the economic and other consequences of the war in Ukraine.
The Luxembourg Prime Minister reaffirmed his country's principled positions on the Cyprus problem. On the issue of the sanctions imposed by the EU against Russia for the invasion of Ukraine, Mr Bettel said that these should continue to be applied as a means of exerting constant pressure, while stressing Luxembourg's position, which he expresses on every occasion at EU level, that in the case of Cyprus, the Union must show the same sensitivity.
Finally, there was an exchange of views on issues of wider common interest, with particular emphasis on the completed work of the Conference on the Future of Europe and the contribution of national parliaments in this context.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
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